SIR: Some of your readers will have been among the 500 NSPCC runners who took part in the London Marathon on April 26, 1998, to raise money for the Society.

As the NSPCC's Marathon Patron, I am writing to send out my heartfelt thanks to all those who ran, jogged, walked and hobbled the 26.2 mile course. It's a magnificent achievement to have completed the course and also to know that you've supported a very worthwhile cause.

As well those who ran, I would also like to thank everybody who supported the NSPCC's Marathon team, despite the rather soggy conditions, by cheering from the four NSPCC points along the route. After the race, 12 volunteers from the London College of Massage, kindly donated their time to massage tired, aching limbs back to life, so many thanks to them also.

We are hoping to raise half a million pounds through the 1998 NSPCC Marathon Team for our crucial child protection work. The NSPCC relies on voluntary donations for 85pc of its income, and this money will be vital in helping us in the battle against child abuse.

Anyone interested in running the London Marathon in 1999 for the NSPCC, can contact us on 0171 825 2647 for information on how to register for the event.

Steve Ovett, NSPCC, National Centre, 42, Curtain Road, London EC2A 3NH

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