
Sturfit gym instructor Hayley Goddard has raised more than £2,000 for the Sturminster Newton community leisure centre after completing this year’s London Marathon.
Hayley, who lives in Henstridge with her partner and two daughters, joined Sturfit in 2022 and says working there has shown her just how vital the facility is for the local community.
‘We’re a little isolated here in rural North Dorset,’ she says. ‘Without good public transport links, facilities like Sturfit are hugely important for providing opportunities in sport, leisure and fitness and also a community and social hub.’
Hayley, who had only ‘dabbled’ in running before, took on the challenge to help Sturfit put on more activities and reach even more people.

Sturfit Centre Manager Roger Teasdale says: ‘Hayley’s fundraising page has already topped £2,099, beating our £2,000 target – and there are still collection pots and pledges to come in.’
Sturfit secured a coveted place in the London Marathon through the small charities ballot, but unfortunately missed out for 2026.
Find out more about Sturfit and its work at sturfit.org.
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