George Joyce, sales director at South Yorkshire family-run business Wolf Components, is set to take on the challenge of the TCS London Marathon this April in aid of The Furniture Makers’ Company, the City of London livery company and charity for the furnishing industry.
The event, which takes place on Sunday 27 April 2025, will see around 53,000 people run 26.2 miles around the nation’s capital, with thousands of well-wishers and supporters flocking to London to line the streets and cheer on the runners.
The route starts south of the Thames at Blackheath before crossing Tower Bridge around mile 12. After taking a detour through Canary Wharf and the City of London, the race draws to a close outside Buckingham Palace.
In his first-ever marathon attempt, George hopes to raise £7,000 for the charity, which supports people from the UK furniture and furnishing industry who have fallen on hard times, as well as organising several initiatives to encourage young people into the sector. A supporter of the industry charity already, George was admitted as a corporate liveryman of The Furniture Maker’s Company in December 2024 when Wolf Components joined as a corporate member.
George said: “I admired the incredible work that the Furniture Makers charity does in supporting those within the furniture industry who need help the most. As a new member of the Furniture Makers, I wanted to contribute in a meaningful way, and what better way to raise funds and awareness than by running a marathon for such an important cause.”
Though the longest run he has ever completed prior to training was 12 km, George views the London Marathon as a personal test, as well as an opportunity to shine a spotlight on a cause close to his heart.
“Running the marathon is significant personally because it’s a test of my endurance and resilience,” he said. “But running for the Furniture Makers gives it an added layer of purpose. Knowing that I’m raising money and awareness for such an impactful cause makes this race even more meaningful.
“Every time I feel tired on a training run, I think about the support the Furniture Makers provide, and it gives me a boost. I just want to say a huge thank you! Your encouragement and generosity are directly impacting the lives of those in the furniture industry. Please continue to donate so we can help the Furniture Makers charity support more people.”
Brian Ahern, Master of The Furniture Makers’ Company, said: “George’s dedication to supporting The Furniture Makers’ Company through his marathon challenge is truly inspiring. His commitment not only highlights the personal resilience required to run such a monumental race but also demonstrates the incredible impact that each of us can have on our industry. I strongly encourage everyone to get behind George and contribute to this worthy cause. Your donation will go a long way in supporting those in our sector who need it most and ensuring that future generations have the opportunity to thrive within the furniture industry.”
You can support George’s fundraising by donating through his JustGiving page.
