Mr Degale was among 45,000 runners who waved goodbye to their hard-earned place at this year's London Marathon. But the Wandsworth resident, is not letting it dampen his spirits.

The London Marathon has been postponed from April 26 to October 4, due to concerns over the safety of runners, spectators and volunteers, but the event will be hosted virtually this year.

Those who originally had a place will have the opportunity to run the 26.2 miles distance from a route of their choice.

The 40th Virtual London Marathon is optional, but to cheer up the people of London and the Wandsworth community, Mr Degale has decided to run the distance around Battersea Park, raising money for cancer.

And Mr Degale will be going the extra mile - wearing a giant bell costume, to signify when a bell rung after a cancer patient completes treatment.

He says:

"I am honoured to be chosen by the charity Children with Cancer UK to run in this special costume, which signifies courage, strength and hope, which I believe our community needs more than ever during these uncertain times.

"My target is raise £2000 for this amazing charity, and I am hoping that on the day the local community will come out and support my efforts (while maintaining social distancing)."

Mr Degale plans to set off around the park at 8.30am and will have 24 hours to complete the distance.

He adds:

"This is a unique event which will probably never happen again so I am so excited to be taking part."

You can donate to Mr Degale's fundraising challenge here.