FIFTEEN office workers have shown that charity begins at home by deciding to take part in York’s first-ever marathon.

The Plusnet employees have volunteered to take on the 26-mile Plusnet Yorkshire Marathon due to take place in October.

The race – which is organised under the Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All events umbrella – is part of a fundraising legacy to Jane, who raised almost £2 million for charity by tackling endurance challenges despite having incurable cancer.

All 5,500 places for the race were snapped up in days. The workmates will be running the race in aid of Roundabout, which supports young homeless people.

Jamie Ford, CEO at Plusnet, said: “As a sports enthusiast myself, I have great admiration for what the marathon runners are about to put themselves through. It takes great determination and dedication to commit to this challenge and I have great respect for those who have shown interest in the marathon and in raising funds for Roundabout.”

Among the runners is Gus Thompson who said he was training using a Garmin training watch, along with a training plan from the Runners’ World website. This, along with a fistful of energy gels, has so far put him in good stead to complete the marathon in a good time.

Gus said: “The marathon being in Yorkshire seemed like an opportunity not to be missed. I’m enjoying training so far, although my friends, family and colleagues think I am bonkers.”

A waiting list is now in place for slots for the marathon, due to take place on October 20, and the run’s flat and fast course has attracted athletes from as far afield as The Bahamas.