British middle-distance runner Jake Wightman is encouraging more schools to register for this year’s TCS Mini London Marathon in schools and help create a happy, healthier future generation.

Wightman, who ran the Mini London Marathon in both 2008 and 2009, took time out from his preparations for next week’s World Athletics Championships to visit Heathmere Primary School in south west London. Heathmere is just one of the schools already signed up for this year’s TCS Mini London Marathon in schools, which will take place between Monday 26 September and Friday 21 October.

Pupils at Heathmere were treated to a talk from Wightman – the third-fastest British man in history over 1500m – before going on a jog with him around their school playground.

Wightman said: “The TCS Mini London Marathon in schools is so important to help keep kids active, just to get a healthy mind and healthy body. Hopefully we can end up producing another generation of athletes who can go on to achieve on the world stage. And, if not, we get a generation of very happy and healthy kids.”