A runner is pulling on her trainers to run the London Marathon 2014 to raise money for a charity close to her heart.

Laura Blight, of Warren Road, in Halstead is tackling the 26-mile race to raise money for Cancer Research UK and will also be holding a Fundraising Extravaganza on Saturday. 

Miss Blight, 28, said: “I worked in the head office for the charity for a year so it’s a charity that is really close to my heart and means a lot to me.

“My nan also battled bowel cancer about five years ago, she pulled through and is fine now but a couple of my friends’ parents haven’t been so lucky.

“I’ve done the Race For Life before which is 5km but never anything like this so it is going to be a bit of a challenge."

The event will be held in Great Maplestead Village Hall, which will be packed with stalls featuring crafts, face painting, mini-manicures, raffles, refreshments and Mother’s Day gifts.

Entry fees are £1 for adults, children go free and all proceeds will go towards Cancer Research UK.

The event will be open from 10am until 3pm.

Donations can be made at justgiving.com/Laura-Blight