A tree has been planted in Ilford in memory of a runner believed to have been the oldest ever to complete a marathon.
The tribute to Fauja Singh BEM, who lived in Ilford, took place at a memorial service held in Redbridge Recreation Ground and was organised by Redbridge Council to honour his life and legacy.
Family, community representatives, and dignitaries gathered to remember the man they called "Marathon Man" and celebrate his achievements.
Born in Punjab at a time when birth certificates were not commonly issued, Mr Singh’s precise age was never officially verified. However, his accomplishments as a veteran athlete were widely recognised.
He died in a road accident in Punjab in July 2025 at the age of 114. He was struck by a car while crossing a road in his birth village, Beas Pind.
Harmander Singh from Sikhs In The City said: "Fauja was more than a runner – he was a beacon of hope and positivity for everyone who met him.
"His determination showed that age is no barrier to achievement, and his influence will continue to inspire generations. We are deeply grateful to Redbridge Council for arranging this ceremony and for honouring him in such a meaningful way."
Read more
The lost Tube station that became a Chinese restaurant
A walk exploring the history of North Weald’s railway, woodlands and Essex Way
After the death of his wife, Mr Singh had moved to east London to live with his son, he lived in Ilford since 1992.
Despite being unable to walk until the age of five, he took up running in 2000 at the age of 89. He completed his first marathon in London in six hours and 54 minutes, setting a world best in the 90-plus age bracket.
Mr Singh rose to international fame later in life after taking up running at 89, eventually completing marathons around the world and setting multiple age-group records, though not formally ratified.
In 2003, he finished the Toronto Waterfront Marathon in five hours and 40 minutes.
Cllr Kam Rai, leader of Redbridge Council, said: "Fauja Singh was a true inspiration – not just to Redbridge, but to people around the world. His story reminds us that it is never too late to achieve something extraordinary. I would also like to thank Sikhs In The City for their longstanding contribution to our borough and for the vital role they played in supporting Fauja throughout his remarkable journey.
"Planting this tree in his honour ensures that his legacy continues to grow here in the borough he called home."
Mr Singh was one of the five founding members of Sikhs In The City and was coached throughout his running career by Harmander Singh.
At the memorial service, a commemorative plaque was unveiled by Cllr Joe Hehir, deputy mayor of Redbridge.
Tributes were shared by members of Mr Singh’s family, Cllr Kam Rai and Harmander Singh, with light refreshments provided by Sikhs In The City. Redbridge Museum also paid tribute, highlighting its 2015 film Marathon Man, which documents Mr Singh’s life. One of his running T-shirts is currently on display in the new museum.
A separate memorial service organised by Sikhs In The City will be held at Redbridge Town Hall on March 28, 2026. Attendees are asked to RSVP by emailing info@sikhsinthecity.org.
