Entrants usually need 12 months to prepare for the gruelling 26-mile course.

       But the team accepted a late invite from the Captain Tom Foundation. One is even recovering from a broken leg.

       Tracey Sabey, 43, Liam Mannion, 62, Robert Whaley, 35, and Amanda McLaughlan, from Marston Moretaine, Bedfordshire, are raising money for the foundation.

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       Liam, who broke his leg during lockdown, said: "This is about raising as much money as we can to inspire hope where it is needed most.

       "We want to combat loneliness, support people facing bereavement and champion education and equality."

       Sir Tom, who died aged 100 in February, raised ￡38.9million for NHS charities by walking laps of his garden.

       His daughter Hannah Ingram-Moore said: "The runners have our full support."

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