EastEnders star Laura Doddington, known for her fierce portrayal of Nicola Mitchell, proved she is a wonder woman off-screen as she completed the London Marathon for Alzheimer's Research UK. The actress, beloved by cast and fans alike, shared a tearful embrace with her on-screen son Elijah Holloway, who plays Harry Mitchell, in a heartwarming Instagram post.
Emotional Finish Line Moment
Laura uploaded a picture to Instagram of herself being warmly hugged by Elijah Holloway, with the words: 'If ever there was a picture that summed up how I feel about today, it’s this.' The caption read: 'This day, this man! I feel so incredibly lucky to have been able to run the London marathon but seeing [Elijah] was just what I needed!'
Overwhelming Support from Co-Stars
The comment section was flooded with love from her EastEnders family. James Farrar, who plays Zack Hudson, wrote: 'SOLID. We love you Dodger.' Jaden Ladega, who plays Denzel Danes, added: 'Congrats Dodders all the love!' Diane Parish, known as Denise Fox, called her 'Wonder Woman,' while Alice Haig, who plays Vicki Fowler, said: 'This is the best.' Dayo Koleosho, better known as Kojo Asare, commented: 'Congratulations Laura, much love, God bless you.'
Fan Reactions
Fans also joined in the celebration. @synicalsally87 wrote: 'Well done Nicola, can’t be an easy thing to do, I wouldn’t be able to do five minutes without needing an ambulance.' @scarlettwinningale said: 'Congratulations Laura! So so proud of you! Keep shining and doing incredible things.' @mrs_bea_kind added: 'Huge congratulations to you, I followed your training for this, I hope you are ok. I sponsored and thank you for raising money for a fantastic charity.' @therehabilitationroom commented: 'Congratulations Laura, I’m so proud of you! The determination you have had this past month to make this day has been amazing.'
Training Journey
Laura announced her participation in the marathon last month with a collage of four images on Instagram. 'Well it seems like it is now time to share the news. I am running the London Marathon 2026 for @alzheimersresearchuk,' she wrote. '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. Training has been horrendous, especially in the weather we have had, not to mention trying to fit it in around Nicola and her heels!'
Charity Motivation
'But the struggle I am facing is nothing compared to those dealing with Alzheimer’s and dementia. So if you would like to support an amazing charity (and an absolutely knackered 45 year old!), please click the link in my bio!' she added. Alzheimer’s Research UK responded: 'You’re a superstar, Laura, and we’re so proud to have you running with us! Thank you for all your hard work in supporting our search for a cure. You’ve got this.'
More Celebrity Support
Heather Peace, who plays Eve Panesar-Unwin, commented: 'You’re amazing! Such gruesome training, especially in Winter. I feel your pain matey. But you’ll cross that line and it’s all worth it.' Aaron Thiara (Ravi Gulati), Clair Norris (Bernie Taylor), and Kitty Castledine (Penny Branning) also left supportive emojis.
