Warning: This article contains references to suicide and mental health issues.
It all started with one life-changing phone call.
In truth, Dave Lock had phoned – and then soon hung up – several times before he could bring himself to engage in any conversation.
The 62-year-old was at “rock bottom” when he saw an advert for Samaritans on a bus shelter.
On Sunday, he will run his 25th consecutive London Marathon in fancy dress for the charity, in the large green telephone costume which has become synonymous with his endeavours.
That does not account for his remarkable lockdown-enforced ‘patio-thon’ in 2020, for which he decorated his patio with pictures of the capital’s iconic landmarks and ran 2,175 laps to cover the 26.2 miles.
Chosen as captain of the 500-strong team of runners raising money for Samaritans, the London Marathon charity of the year, Lock says it will be a “dream come true” to this time complete the event with his daughter, Isabella, as they run in memory of his younger brother Steven, who took his own life last year.
“Steven always used to come and watch the London Marathon and he always used to stand near mile 24,” says Lock, known as ‘Samaritans Running Telephone’.
“It was great to just run up in the telephone costume and high-five him. Then he would name a pub and we would meet after the race.
“Isabella and I know that Steven will be there. We will exchange a high-five with Steven at mile 24.
“Steven’s suicide has made me feel even more committed to doing whatever I can for Samaritans, whether that’s running 26 miles or promoting mental health. I have already made a commitment to myself that this London Marathon will not be my last.”
