Richard Herring is raising funds for Operation Agri on Sunday. On Monday three people were killed and more than 170 injured when two bombs exploded near the finish of the Boston Marathon.

'If anything, it increased my motivation,' said Richard. 'I saw the footage and immediately put a post on Facebook saying "My heart goes out to Boston, and I'll be running the London Marathon with my head held high".

'I can't believe someone could do this, but it shouldn't stop us doing the things we want to do. I hope the London Marathon organisers will do something to pay respects to the people of Boston before the race on Sunday. I'll be part of a united group on Sunday saying this will not stop us.'

Taking part in the London Marathon has been a long held ambition for Richard, who used to captain Portsmouth Rugby Football Club until giving it up a couple of years ago to concentrate on his job as a general manager in the catering industry.

However, he had always been unable to secure a place until this year, and that was quite by chance. Small charities receive entry places every several years, but Operation Agri feared it would miss out when its original runner damaged his Achilles while training. The runner knew Richard, and he willingly stepped up in January.

'I've had eight weeks training, which is not a lot, but I've always been active and I feel ready for Sunday,' said Richard.

'It's a great charity and knowing the money I raise will make a difference, that motivation gets you through anything.'

The London Marathon is the largest fundraising event in the world - and Operation Agri is extremely grateful for Richard's participation.

'He's a hero,' said the Revd Elgan Evans, Operation Agri secretary. 'He willingly stepped into the gap at short notice, we're delighted he's helping us, and in doing so is fulfilling a personal ambition.'

To support Richard, donations can be made on line http://www.justgiving.com/richard-herring2

Last Updated on Thursday, 18 April 2013 09:14