A former Royal Navy aircraft carrier captain is preparing to run the London Marathon in support of a charity focused on helping veterans recover from addiction and trauma.
Will Blackett, who previously commanded HMS Prince of Wales, is raising funds for Tom Harrison House, a UK-based charity that provides support to military veterans dealing with substance misuse and mental health challenges.
Writing on his fundraising page, Blackett said he had developed a strong connection to the organisation during his time in command. “I got to know the charity through their affiliation to HMS Prince of Wales, which I was privileged to command from January 2024 until November 2025.”
Tom Harrison House works with veterans facing complex challenges, offering residential programmes and long-term support aimed at recovery and reintegration. Blackett said seeing that work first-hand had motivated him to take on the challenge.
“Having met so many of the incredible people working at [the charity], and those who have benefited from the life saving work they do, I am inspired to push boundaries,” he wrote.
The London Marathon, due to take place on 26 April 2026, will be Blackett’s first attempt at the distance. Despite describing himself as a regular runner, he acknowledged the scale of the challenge, setting a target time of three and a half hours.
“I am a keen runner, but have never ventured into really long distance challenges – so this will be my first marathon,” he said, adding that training has now been completed ahead of race day.
Blackett also drew a direct comparison between the physical challenge of marathon running and the experiences of those supported by the charity. “Overcoming a little bit of pain on the running track is nothing compared to the strength and determination I have seen first hand,” he wrote.
He is now approaching his fundraising target and has urged others to support the effort. “Please donate generously. I will push myself hard to do you proud.”
Tom Harrison House, based in Liverpool, supports veterans from across the UK and has developed close links with elements of the Royal Navy, including HMS Prince of Wales. The charity’s work has received increasing attention in recent years as awareness grows around the long-term challenges faced by some former service personnel.
Blackett’s fundraiser remains open ahead of the marathon, with donations contributing directly to the charity’s ongoing programmes, you can help out here if you are able.
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