Eastenders star Laura Doddington has swapped Nicola Mitchell’s high heels for some running shoes, all for an extremely good cause. The actor has shared on Instagram that she will be running in the 2026 London Marathon in aid of Alzheimer’s Research UK.
Sharing a set of pics in her charity running jersey, Laura explained that she has been balancing training with her work on the soap and is just five weeks out from the challenge.
Laura wrote: “Well it seems like it is now time to share the news. I am running the London Marathon 2026 for @alzheimersresearchuk I have 5 weeks left of training to go and it’s safe to say that this feels like the hardest thing I have ever done in my whole life.
Related: Best streaming services UK 2026
“Training has been horrendous, especially in the weather we have had, not to mention trying to fit it in around Nicola and her heels!
“But the struggle I am facing is nothing compared to those dealing with Alzheimer’s and dementia.”
Laura signed off by adding that a link to her fundraising page was on her Instagram bio, saying: “If you would like to support an amazing charity (and an absolutely knackered 45 year old!), please click the link in my bio!”
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
On her fundraising page, Laura explains that: “There are currently nearly 1 million people living with dementia in the UK, including people I care very deeply about, through whom I have learnt how difficult coping with this disease can be.
“So, when facing the hardest physical challenge of my life, I couldn’t think of a better cause to raise money for.”
Laura’s comments section was flooded with support from her fellow Eastenders cast members, including Ravi Gulati actor Aaron Thiara who sent his co-star a heart emoji.
Diane Parish, who plays Denise Fox, sent Laura a flexed biceps emoji, while Kitty Castledine (Penny Branning) wrote: “Love ya xxxx”.
Heather Peace, who plays Eve Unwin, wrote: “You’re amazing! Such a gruesome training, especially in Winter. I feel your pain matey. But you’ll cross that line and it’s all worth it. You can rock that one off and be done with it.”
Meanwhile, on the Square, Nicola is preparing to welcoming a child with George Knight, who has moved into her basement flat.
Next month will see the reopening of the Walford East restaurant, which George has taken over from Ravi with investment from Nicola.
George has renamed the business Knight Fusion and is set to host a big opening night party that is sure to be filled with drama for the residents of Walford.
