The ultimate run club: Nestlé colleagues take on the London Marathon with Buxton to raise funds for Mind

Start to finish, 26.2 miles. More than 50,000 runners. The UK’s capital city. The TCS London Marathon returns on Sunday as the world’s biggest one-day fundraising event, and Buxton Natural Mineral Water will proudly serve as the official bottled water provider and longstanding partner for the 13th year.

Like in previous years, a brilliant team of runners will be lacing up as Team Buxton, raising funds for mental health charity, Mind. Since 2023, Buxton and Mind have joined forces on a shared mission to support the nation's Sweat and Tears – actively championing physical and mental health through exercise and hydration.

We are extremely proud that a brilliant team of colleagues from across the Nestlé business is running with Buxton. We caught up with nine of them to hear their stories and motivations that inspired them to take on this monumental challenge, all in support of better mental health.

You can donate to Mind here. We wish our runners the very best of luck!

Niall Bridge, Plant Manager

“Over the past three years, I’ve been fortunate to be part of an incredible group of people dedicated to raising money for Mind and honouring the memory of Travis Rogers, who we lost to suicide 3 years ago. As the “Trek for Trav” team at the Princes Gate water bottling site, we’ve taken on some tough challenges together – raising more than £25,000 across three major events, including the Welsh Three Peaks. Being part of this team has shown me the power of community, shared purpose, and determination.

“Now, it feels like the right time for me to step up to a personal challenge of my own. I wanted to push myself, honour the efforts of the Princes Gate team, and continue shining a light on Mind and the amazing work they do whilst honouring Travis’ memory. I’m not a runner, but the London Marathon presents one of the toughest physical and mental challenges you can undertake. I feel very lucky to have been selected but was not aware of how hard the training was going to be and the level of commitment needed. Living in Wales and training over the winter has been challenging to say the least.

“The support from family and friends has been truly amazing and I’m super excited to experience the atmosphere, the iconic landmarks from a different point of view and hopefully (everything crossed) that sense of pride and achievement when I cross the finish line. Let's go London.”

Emily Allen, Category Development Manager

“I am a firm believer in seizing all of life’s opportunities, so when the chance arose to run this year’s London Marathon, I had to say yes. I feel incredibly grateful that this will be my second time running the marathon, there is no other feeling like running through the streets with the crowds and just experiencing the pure joy and energy of London on marathon day.

“Mind is a charity that means an awful lot to me, they’ve helped me and many people I know, the work they do is incredible. So, to have the opportunity to raise funds for them again is also a blessing. Thank you to Dani, Debbie and Keith and the whole London Marathon team!”

Ross Carter, National Account Manager

“In 2020, I lost my father-in-law to suicide. It was devastating for our family and brought home just how critical mental health support is. Mind is a charity incredibly close to my heart because of the vital work they do in providing help when people need it most.

“Running the London Marathon for them is my way of turning grief into something positive and ensuring others have access to the support that can save lives.”

Joe Hughes, Customer Solutions Team Leader

“Growing up, my dad was an avid runner, completing several marathons including the London Marathon. I have always said that I would like to complete the London Marathon, so I was delighted to get the opportunity to do this through Nestlé and in partnership with Mind.

“Mind is a charity that holds a special place in my heart and anyone that knows me will be aware of my own experiences and struggles with the effects of mental health. I'm aiming to raise £1,000 and complete the marathon in under 4 hours, although completing without getting injured is the main focus!”

Conor Firth, Supply Planner

“Watching the London Marathon, it’s always felt like one of those iconic, once-in-a-lifetime moments. After moving to London last year, one of my favourite memories was going to watch it in person – seeing the atmosphere, the support, and just how much it means to so many people. So, to now have the opportunity to actually run it feels incredibly special.

“I’m proud to be doing it for Mind, an amazing charity that does such important work supporting mental health. It’s a cause that means a lot to me, and I hope to make a positive difference through taking on this challenge.”

Woman holding a Buxton water bottle whilst out for a run.

Chynna Edwards, National Account Manager

“I’ll be running the London Marathon in memory of my dad, who sadly passed away in 2014 after taking his own life. I’m running for Mind, a charity that means a lot to me personally. After losing my dad, Mind was there – providing support, understanding, and a safe space when everything felt impossible. Their work changes lives every day by helping people struggling with their mental health, and I want to do my part to give something back.

“Every mile I run will be for my dad – for the moments we shared, for the laughter, and for all the memories I hold so close. But I’ll also be running for everyone who has ever felt lost, alone, or in pain. Mental health matters, and no one should have to face it without help.”

Andy Lawrence, Factory Data Co-Ordinator

“As well as being a dream of mine to take part in the London Marathon, I’m running in honour of my late brother, John, and to support Mind, a charity that provides life‑changing support for mental health. John’s memory inspires me every day, and taking on this challenge is my way of celebrating his life, his strength, and the love we shared as brothers.

“This marathon isn’t just a race — it’s a tribute. Every mile represents John’s courage and the importance of speaking openly about mental health. By running for Mind, I hope to help others get the support they need and keep John’s spirit alive by doing something positive in his name.”

Two women stood in front of an Edinburgh Marathon Festival sign.

Pip Edgar, Factory Planning Lead

“I’m proud to be running the London Marathon in support of Mind, a charity that means a lot to me. I got into running during lockdown, starting with casual park runs with friends, but it soon became something much more meaningful.

“I originally signed up for my first marathon with a close friend who was struggling with her mental health, using running as a source of strength and support. When she had to pull out it only strengthened my determination to complete the marathon on behalf of us both. Crossing that finish line carried not just my own journey, but hers too. A year later, in a much happier and stronger place, we were able to run a marathon together, raising money for Mind and celebrating how far she had come. It was an incredibly powerful experience and a reminder of just how important the right support can be.

“This will be my third marathon, and it feels especially meaningful to run for Mind once again. Seeing first-hand the impact that support can have has inspired me to give back and help others who may be facing similar challenges.”

Tom Ranby, Easter Supply Planner

“I am proud to be running the London Marathon with Team Buxton, to raise awareness and funds for Mind. If you had mentioned a marathon to me 12 months ago, I would have quickly declined, but on the 26th of April, I will complete my second marathon whilst having the chance to raise money for an amazing charity.

“I have seen people close to me struggle with mental health challenges and the impact/damage it can have on many lives, so I’m happy to be able to support a charity that provides help to many people.”

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