Ian Buchanan

After the death of his only child, Andrew, in infancy, Ian ran 16 London marathons to raise money for charites, benefitting principally those for disabled children, such as The Calvert Trust which provides opportunities for them on Exmoor. He raised £62k in this way, but another £38k over the years in other fund-raising activities. He also organised the Bampton 10k race for many years, and participated in fund-raising for Children in Need. Latterly he has raised money for Exeter Leukaemia Fund in memory of a friend who died of the disease. Ian cheerfully supports local charities and has not allowed his own tragedy to colour his efforts to alleviate the suffering of others. I commend him to you as someone who is a shining beacon to the community, which would be aptly symbolised by carrying the Olympic flame through our area.