Jordan and Beth Meads to run London Marathon in clogs for carers

A young couple has been so inspired by walks in Cornwall that they are preparing to take on the 2025 London Marathon in a unique set of footwear.

Grantham couple Jordan and Beth Meads, both 25, will run the marathon in Croc-style foam clogs to support the The Carers Centre Leicestershire and Rutland, which has aided unpaid carers in the region for more than 30 years.

The pair’s connection to the charity stems from Beth’s experience caring for her grandmother during Covid-19.

“It was right in the middle of Covid when she became very ill, not directly related to the virus, but while everyone went into lockdown,” said Beth.

“There was a lot of risk with the restrictions, and it was me and a couple of family members who were going over many times a day to look after her because there were no carers available at that time.

“It was really, really tough.”

Although the charity didn’t directly support her and the family, Beth said the organisation’s work was “invaluable”.

The 26.2mile London Marathon will take place on April 27 with its route taking in many of London's best landmarks including Buckingham Palace, The Cutty Sark, Tower Bridge and Canary Wharf.

Jordan works as a class teacher at a SEND school in Melton Mowbray, while Beth’s day job is with the Stroke Association, so both are embedded in their communities.

Their fundraising campaign, highlighted on their dedicated page, underscores their commitment to this cause.

Jordan and Beth plan to organise a series of community events, including bake sales, quiz nights, and car washes, to engage local supporters and increase donations.

Their goal is to raise £2,000 to help The Carers Centre Leicestershire and Rutland continue its crucial work.

The charity provides vital support for unpaid carers, ensuring they receive necessary resources and advocacy.

Jordan and Beth, both 25 from Grantham, chose clogs for their personal connection to Cornwall and as a challenge.

The pair recently took a holiday in the area.

“We both love Cornwall so much and we are generally big clog wearers,” said Jordan.

“That’s the main reason for ‘Why clogs?’ but we also fancied a bit of a challenge as well.”

Both are very aware of the challenges of running in clogs and plan to start training full-time in the footwear.

“I’m sure we’ll get a couple of funny looks from passers-by when we’re running down the street in full running gear and a pair of clogs,” said Beth.

“The blisters will be the biggest challenge, purely because wearing clogs for such long-distance running is going to be tough.”

The couple invites the community to support their mission through donations or by joining their fundraising events.

For more details and to contribute, visit their fundraising page.

They need to raise £1,000 each, totalling £2,000, to enter next year’s marathon.