Disability charity Scope has pulled the Singing Striders choir from this Sunday’s London Marathon after founder Janet Murray’s gender‑critical commentary drew internal complaints. The choir performed for Scope in 2022 and 2023 and had been booked for mile three this year. An email to Murray cited “concerns raised” and the charity’s “commitment to equality and inclusion.”

Murray, a journalist who writes on transgender issues, says she never brings her views into the choir’s repertoire. She argues the decision stems from two anonymous complaints about her belief that sex is immutable and women’s spaces should remain for biological females. Scope chief executive John McLachlan confirmed the charity felt her presence would be a distraction, though he stressed respect for differing opinions.

The marathon expects a record‑breaking field, with more than 59,000 runners set to cover the 26.2‑mile course, topping last year’s 56,640 finishers. Event director Hugh Brasher said the race remains “as inclusive as we can be” for mass participants, while elite women’s events follow World Athletics rules that bar trans women. The choir’s removal spotlights the clash between charity ties and shifting gender policies.