Daddy Pig and coach Joe Wicks on their marks to collect London Marathon bibs

Fitness expert Joe Wicks was first in line to collect his bib number ahead of this weekend’s London Marathon – joined by children’s TV character Daddy Pig.

Wicks is the official coach and trainer for Peppa Pig’s father, from the eponymous children’s cartoon, and will run the race alongside him to help raise money and awareness for the National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS).

The two appeared together to cut the tape at the official opening of the 2026 TCS London Marathon Running Show at Excel London on Wednesday morning.

Daddy Pig is taking on the challenge to coincide with a storyline where he learns that his son, George Pig, is moderately deaf.

Father-of-three Wicks posed for photos and chatted to fans alongside Daddy Pig, while the two were also photographed with three‑time London Marathon winner Paula Radcliffe.

More than 59,000 participants will visit the running show to collect their event packs as they prepare for the marathon on Sunday.

Wicks previously emphasised the importance of training ahead of a big run, and said he has helped Daddy Pig build up his fitness by doing three sessions a week including a strength session, interval session and a long run.

According to the NDCS, more than 54,000 children in the UK are affected by hearing loss, with Daddy Pig aiming to raise £54,000 for deaf children and their families.

Wicks and Daddy Pig are hoping to complete the race within five hours.

Daddy Pig also ran the London Marathon in a special episode of Peppa Pig, which aired last week.