The 56 year old is aiming to raise a total of £100,000 for the Family Holiday Association [FHA], and this year’s challenge has accrued a further £11,250.
The charity helps some of the most deprived children in the country and their families to have a break, either for a week in a caravan in the UK or simply for a day trip.
The FHA is only able to help the most serious cases of young people living in poverty, who are referred to them by the NHS and other agencies.
John has been appointed as an ambassador for its Together 2020 campaign, which is aiming to double the number of families helped.
He became involved in supporting the FHA through the travel industry, a sector in which he has worked since leaving education 39 years ago.
John took part in his first London Marathon in 1988, when he was running on behalf of The Prince’s Trust.
His recorded his best time over the 26.2-mile distance, 5hr 1min 26sec, five years ago but admits ‘I’m getting slower every year now!’
John trains every day by walking or jogging to Tonbridge railway station and home again, on his way to and from work at ABTA’s headquarters in London, where he looks after consumer financial protection.
During the winter months he builds up the distance on a route which takes in Southborough, Tonbridge, Hildenborough, Somerhill, Pembury and Tunbridge Wells.
To make a donation, visit virginmoneygiving.com/johndevial
For more information on the FHA, visit familyholidayassociation.org.uk
