A York-born teenager will celebrate her 18th birthday in extraordinary style this April by running the London Marathon in support of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.
Molly Bull-Diamond, 17, who now lives in Malton, will take on the iconic 26.2-mile challenge on 26 April 2026 – the very day she turns 18.
Currently revising for her A-levels at Pocklington School, Molly is balancing marathon training alongside her studies and hopes to go on to study for an undergraduate degree at the University of Oxford later this year if she achieves her grades.
A dedicated member of the school’s Combined Cadet Force (CCF), Molly holds the senior role of Cadet Colour Sergeant. Through her involvement with the CCF, she has spent time with serving personnel and heard first-hand about military life – experiences that inspired her to support SSAFA.
Molly said: “Being part of the CCF has given me the opportunity to meet members of the Armed Forces and hear their stories. I’ve always found what they do incredibly inspiring.
The staff in the CCF have done so much for me and I wanted to find a way to give something back. Running a marathon has been a goal of mine for several years, so when I realised the London Marathon would take place on my 18th birthday, it felt like the perfect opportunity – especially to support a charity like SSAFA.”
SSAFA provides lifelong support to serving personnel, veterans and their families, helping them overcome challenges ranging from financial hardship to housing difficulties, health concerns and loneliness.
Despite the demands of exam preparation, Molly continues to train regularly, fitting in running sessions alongside gym workouts and swimming whenever possible. She is supported every step of the way by her parents and two older sisters, who are both currently at university.
Away from training, Molly enjoys spending time with her two dogs, Luna and Monty.
Her connection to the Armed Forces also runs in the family. Her father was a member of the Oxford University Officers’ Training Corps (UOTC) while studying at Reading, further strengthening her appreciation for military service and community.
Beverley Robb, Community Engagement Lead for SSAFA North Yorkshire Branch said:
“It’s incredibly inspiring to see someone as young as Molly take on such a major challenge – and on her 18th birthday too. Her commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community is remarkable, especially while preparing for her A-levels. We’re hugely grateful for her support.”
SSAFA has been supporting the Armed Forces community for more than 140 years and continues to provide practical, emotional and financial assistance to those who need it most.
To support Molly’s London Marathon fundraiser for SSAFA, click here
SSAFA volunteers have been helping the Armed Forces community – regulars and reserves, serving or retired, and their families since 1885. To volunteer or fundraise for SSAFA, or to seek support, search for “SSAFA near me”.
