Thousands raised for The Livewell Foundation boosting health and wellbeing across Plymouth and South West Devon.
On Sunday 27 April, five incredible fundraisers proudly crossed the finish line of the London Landmarks Half Marathon 2025, raising vital funds for the Livewell Foundation—a charity committed to improving health, tackling social isolation, and supporting communities across Plymouth, South Hams, and West Devon.
Austin Marshall, Lydia Helyer, Abi Hooper, Tony Phipps, and Chris Davies took on the 13.1-mile route through the capital’s most iconic sights, cheered on by thousands of supporters. Each participant carried their own personal motivation for running—and in Tony’s case, a fridge too, symbolising the often unseen burden of mental health challenges.
The team’s fundraising efforts have already raised almost £7,000 to support the Livewell Foundation’s work, helping people lead healthier, happier lives through community grants, specialist health initiatives, and vital enhancements to health and care services.
Tony Phipps, a seasoned fundraiser with a flair for the extraordinary, once again turned heads by running the entire course with a fridge strapped to his back. Tony said: "This weight isn’t just physical; it represents anxiety, depression, and the emotional toll of life’s challenges. Each step I take, despite the load, reminds me that progress is possible."
Chris Davies, Chairman of the Livewell Foundation, ran alongside Tony in a show of solidarity. After a two year running hiatus the event was a personal milestone for Chris:
"It was a true privilege to run with Tony and our amazing team. Their passion, energy, and resilience reflect everything the Livewell Foundation stands for. Every donation raised will help fund life-changing projects that support our communities’ health and wellbeing."
Two of the team work for Livewell Southwest as a Frailty Practitioner and Lead Occupational Therapist respectively, Abi and Lydia’s professional experience gives them a deep understanding of the frontline challenges faced by individuals and communities. Their decision to run for the Livewell Foundation demonstrates the significant impact that their funding makes.
Rounding off the team was Austin Marshall, the youngest of the Foundation’s runners, whose passion and determination have inspired his supporters to rally behind him, helping him nearly double his original fundraising target. Austin said: "Every day, many people struggle with mental health challenges, often feeling isolated and unheard. The Livewell Foundation provides essential resources and support to those in need."
Charity Manager, Hayley Everett, summed up the charity’s gratitude for those who take time out to raise the vital funds needed to support Livewell Foundation grants and initiatives. She said: "Together, the team’s inspiring efforts and the generosity of their supporters will make a lasting difference across Plymouth and South West Devon. We are deeply thankful to all our fundraisers who not only take on the challenge of the race itself, but also dedicate months of training, travel, and time away from work and family to support our cause. Their commitment can often go unseen but is absolutely vital to what we are able to achieve. If you feel inspired to take on a once-in-a-lifetime challenge, fundraise, and help transform lives, we would love to hear from you."
To support the runners, visit their JustGiving pages: