Bournemouth boy to run London Marathon for Tourette’s Action

Alex Horsley, from St Ives, has signed up for this year’s London Marathon and will be taking on the 26-mile challenge to raise money for a Tourette’s charity.

His 14-year-old brother Toby developed the condition in recent years, with an infection thought to have triggered the ticks.

The Horsley family have been largely supported by the charity Tourette’s Action, prompting Alex to complete the marathon in their aid.

Kirsty, Alex’s mum, said: “Toby has had Tourette’s for a few years, but his started differently to most children, his started with an infection that triggered it off, so before that he was perfectly healthy.

"We’ve been supported really well by Tourette’s Action. They do a lot of resource development and have helped liaise with toby’s school to help them understand the condition.

“We also went on an activity weekend run by them to help Toby meet other people with Tourette’s. That was really valuable for us.

“It’s nice to know Alex is thinking about his brother and he’s recognised that the charity have helped us, and he wants to say thank you to that.”

Alex in training for the London Marathon. Photo: Kirsty Horsley

But what makes the fundraising event even more special is the date it is due to take place. Kirsty said: “Alex is running the marathon on his 18th birthday.

“So, it means he will be the youngest runner, or joint youngest if anyone else is running on their birthday, as you have to be 18 to take part.”

“I’m super proud of him. He’s given up his 18th birthday.

“I’m also proud of Toby. He just gets on with having Tourette’s, he’s resilient.

Alex is now working hard to fundraise ahead of the marathon, with pleas for donations issued on his Tik Tok account and via a Just Giving page, which has already raised more than £400.

The family have also received generous donations from friends and hope to hold a charity fashion show ahead of the marathon to boost the fundraiser.

To donate visit Alex’s Just Giving page.