JAMES Duddridge is set to run the London Marathon to raise funds for a homeless charity.

The MP for Rochford and Southend East will be running the marathon, on April 26, to raise money for HARP, a Southend's homeless charity.

It will be the second time the Rochford and Southend East MP has taken on the world-famous 26.2-mile route, which this year takes place on 26th April. 

In 2019, he completed the course in 4 hours and 36 minutes, raising £3.407.07 for Havens Hospices.

Now, he's hoping to smash last year's fundraising total to support HARP, who provide essential services and support to local people taking steps to overcome homelessness. 

The MP said: "I am delighted to be running the London Marathon on behalf of HARP, who do great work in supporting local people to tackle homelessness and the other complex issues that are often associated with homelessness.

"This will be my second time taking on the 26.2-mile route and my training is underway. I am hoping to beat my time of 4 hours and 36 minutes from last year, however I will be happy just to complete the race having raised a good amount for HARP!"

Jackie Bliss, Chief Executive at HARP said:

“I’m very grateful to James for supporting HARP and dedicating the immense time and energy that goes into preparing for and running The London Marathon to tackling local homelessness.

"It is an exciting challenge and we wish him all the best with his training and fundraising efforts!”

Anybody who wishes to donate can do so by visiting: justgiving.com/jamesduddridgeMP.