Grange View resident completes home-grown London Marathon in memory of brother-in-law

A local man has taken on an enormous challenge to raise money in memory of his brother-in-law, supported by the builder of his home.

Davidsons Homes proudly sponsored local resident Andrew ‘Andi’ Wells, 51, as he took on his own version of the London Marathon on Sunday 27th April – right on his doorstep at the Grange View development in Hugglescote.

Andi, who owns and runs a health and social care teaching company, was inspired to run in memory of his brother-in-law Chris, who sadly passed away earlier this year at home from obstructive sleep apnoea while under the care of Loughborough Renal Unit.

Although he didn’t secure a place in the official London Marathon, Andi took part in the London Marathon My Way, a virtual challenge for those running their own 26.2-mile routes. Staying close to home, he mapped out a unique ‘figure of hate’ – a looped figure-of-eight course centred around the Davidsons showhome. He started and finished his marathon at the same spot, looping the development multiple times to complete the distance.

Andi said: “Running this marathon meant the world to me – it’s been emotional, challenging, and uplifting. I’m so grateful to Davidsons for their support. I love living here and I’ve honestly got nothing but positive things to say about them.”

A member of Coalville Triathlon Club, Andi chose this familiar course in part due to a knee replacement he had three years ago, allowing him to stay within reach of home throughout the challenge. Despite that, he’s no stranger to endurance events, having completed the London Marathon once before in 2021, and regularly competing in half marathons and half Ironman events.

To support Andi on his challenge, Davidsons Homes set up a dedicated snack and refreshment station outside its Grange View showhome, serving as his personal aid station and a cheering point for the local community.

Stephanie King, Sales Director at Davidsons Homes East, said: “Andi’s determination and resilience are truly inspiring, and it was a privilege to support him in this meaningful challenge. We’re proud that Grange View played a small part in helping him complete something so special, and we’re all cheering him on as he raises funds for such an important cause.”

Adding a symbolic and potentially historic touch to the day, Andi ran the entire marathon carrying the Olympic torch that his father had the honour of carrying through Loughborough during the 2012 Olympic torch relay. He is currently awaiting confirmation from Guinness World Records to see if his marathon effort will be recognised as an official record.

Andi completed the marathon in 6.30.53, surrounded by support from friends, neighbours, and well-wishers.

Proceeds raised from Andi’s marathon are being donated to the Loughborough Renal Unit in memory of his brother-in-law. Donations can still be made via his JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/andi-wells