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Tourism student steps up for charity

Millie Broadribb, who is in her second year of a Level 3 Travel and Tourism course, is in training for this year’s Virgin Money London Marathon to raise money for the domestic abuse charity, Refuge.

The 19-year-old found her love for running four years ago when she started joining her dad, an avid runner, during his training sessions. She quickly developed strength and stamina and was soon competing in 10k races and the New Forest half-marathon, but this will be the first time she takes on a full 26.2 miles.

Millie trains at Places Leisure Centre and also has access to Eastleigh College’s gym and fitness studio. She said: “I really enjoy running, it’s good for fitness but I also find it therapeutic. I did have some joint problems when I last raced, so am not pushing the training too much, just taking it steady. I’ve been doing some weight training to strengthen my muscles and help protect my joints. Twenty-six miles is a bit daunting, but I’m working to a schedule and gradually building up my distance running on Southampton Common.”

Millie was inspired by watching the London Marathon on TV last year. She explained: “My dad and cousin were both applying for 2020 so I just thought I would too. My dad’s applied so many times and is disappointed not to have been selected, so I can’t believe I’m in it!”

Refuge - against domestic violence

Since opening the world’s first refuge almost fifty years ago, Refuge has grown to become the UK’s largest provider of support services to women, men and children, experiencing violence and abuse, including domestic violence, sexual violence, female genital mutilation, forced marriage, so-called ‘honour’-based violence, and human trafficking and modern slavery. On any given day Refuge supports upwards of 6,500 clients. 

Millie training in the Eastleigh College gym

Millie recently spent the day with other runners at Refuge, during which the charity provided talks from experienced marathon runners and a physio before enjoying a 5k run around Tower Bridge. “I’m so grateful for the support,” she said, “It feels good to be raising money for such a worthy charity, and I’m really looking forward to the atmosphere on the day.”

The Virgin Money London Marathon will take place on Sunday 26 April. Millie is hoping to raise £1,000 for Refuge. Anyone who would like to sponsor her can do so via her Just Giving page