A BRAVE runner and fundraiser from Tiverton is warming up ready to run the London Marathon for Headway Devon.

Emily Felton, 29, works as a solicitor and began running when she left school.

She is a member of the Tiverton Harriers and has competed in several mid-distance road and cross country races, but this will be her first marathon.

Emily said: “I had watched the London Marathon as a spectator in 2013 and experienced the amazing atmosphere first-hand – it made me want to jump the barriers and join in, so I was really keen to secure a place.”

But her love of running and enthusiasm for this world-famous event isn’t Emily’s only reason for wanting to take on this challenge: “I have been a big admirer and advocate of Headway's work since my sister was injured in a cycling accident four years ago - she and the rest of my family were hugely supported by Headway.

"The run is even more significant for me since my sister is a very talented and successful runner, but hasn't yet returned to running in full form.

"At the moment, she is having treatment for an injury that means she can't run at all for the time being, so the baton falls (temporarily) to me.”

“I'm now at the hardest stages of my training but inspiration from Headway, my sister, my Dad who coaches me, and the support of contributors to my fundraising so far will keep spurring me on.”

If you would like to sponsor Emily and help her to raise even more money for Headway Devon, you can visit her Virgin Money Giving page at http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/EmilyFelton.