A runner from Wells has secured a place in the 2026 London Marathon after 12 years of unsuccessful ballot attempts, running in memory of her late mother.

Emma Woodcock, a member of Wells City Harriers, will take part in the event on behalf of the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS), a charity that supports people affected by the chronic autoimmune condition.

She was chosen from 38 applicants to represent NRAS with its sole allocated place for the marathon. The cause is deeply personal for Emma, whose mother, Patricia Rix, died in March this year aged 64 after living with rheumatoid arthritis and related complications.

"I lost my mum in March this year. She was only 64 years old," said Emma. "She had rheumatoid arthritis for over 20 years. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease and doesn't only swell your joints but also swells your organs. Because of this disease, she later developed heart disease, pulmonary fibrosis – which is a lung disease – COPD, lupus and diabetes."

Emma has been running for nearly 13 years and entered the London Marathon ballot every year without success. After losing her mother, she decided to apply for a charity place and was especially hopeful about NRAS.

"I applied for three places but the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society was the one I really wanted," she said. "They only get given one place for London. I wanted to show them how much I wanted the place so I started fundraising for them even though they hadn't offered me the place."

The charity confirmed her place in late May. "They phoned me to tell me the place was mine. I cried with happiness as it means so much to me. I just wish my mum was here to see me run London next year."

Emma is already a regular runner, having taken part in the 10k at the Wells Festival of Running in May. She has raised over £1,600 so far via her JustGiving page and hopes to increase that total significantly ahead of the race on Sunday, 26 April 2026.

To boost her fundraising, Emma is hosting monthly Leopard Print Bingo nights at Sadlers Wine Bar & Lounge, the Heritage Courtyard restaurant she runs with her husband Jason. The name is a tribute to her mum, who loved both leopard print and bingo.

The sessions take place on the first Sunday of each month. The next is on Sunday, 3 August, with eyes down at 6pm.

Emma is also seeking prize donations for future events. To donate or book a place, contact 07940 261124 or email [email protected]. Donations can also be made here.