A Southampton man is set to run the London Marathon after he was accepted into the annual event without even knowing he was in the ballot.

Nikhil Agrawala, a 45-year-old father of two from Southampton, received confirmation he had been accepted into the 2025 London Marathon, despite the fact he’s “not a runner,” and hadn’t applied to take part in the race.

After trying to get to the bottom of what happened, Nikhil discovered his 13-year-old son, Ansh, had applied on his behalf in secret last year.

Not one to be phased by a challenge, IT worker Nikhil, began five months of intensive training in December, and aims to raise at least £2,500 by the time he crosses the finish line in April, to help improve the facilities at a scout hut in Shirley.

“I’ve never run a marathon in my life,” Nikhil told the Echo.

“I was surprised at the end of last year when I was told I’d been accepted but it didn’t make any sense at first as I was sure I hadn’t applied to take part.

“My eldest son, Ansh, was giggling and he said, ‘I told you.’ I said ‘when?’ and he said, ‘now.’”

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Ansh suffers with cerebral palsy and is unable to walk unaided. A keen member of the 2nd Southampton Scouts, he needs to be carried in and out of the building that dates back to the 1950s.

Nikhil hopes the money raised from completing the London Marathon will go towards modernising the building and help improve accessibility for his son.

As part of his preparation, Nikhil will take part in the Southampton Half Marathon just weeks before he completes the 26.2-mile course in the capital.

Nikhil added: “I love walking in London, so hopefully I won’t mind jogging.

“I’ve got really into the training; it’s been really good.

“I’ve taken part in park runs at the Common and have practiced the half marathon route around the city.

“Last month I was in New York for work, I woke up early, put my running gear on and went for a jog Central Park.

“My friends and family have been so supportive, including my wife Payal, youngest son Dhruv, and of course Ansh, who has been like a personal trainer.”

People can support Nikhil’s fundraising by donating here.