A Mid Wales runner will be taking on one of the biggest marathons in the UK, a week before she turns 50, to raise money for charity.

Alicia Shepherd, from Llansilin near Oswestry will be taking on the London Marathon later this month, running the race to raise money for Hope House and Tŷ Gobaith children’s hospices.

The 49-year-old, who is due to turn 50 a week after the 26-mile race taking place on April 21, said she never thought she would end up running a marathon. She entered her ballot for the 2024 race thinking the chances were so slim that she had no expectations of getting a place.

She said: “I couldn’t believe it when I got the email to say I’d been successful.

“It’s been quite a challenge doing all the training and getting marathon ready. It really does consume all you time, but running it for Hope House and Tŷ Gobaith has really pushed me on.

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"I’ve done a half marathon before and 10ks but never the full 26.2 miles, but what a way to mark tuning 50.

“It’s been hard for sure, but so far I have raised more than £2,110 for such a vital local charity, and that has made it all worth it. I have mainly been fundraising and getting sponsorships from some amazing businesses who will also have their logos on the back of my running shirt.

“But if anyone has anything they could donate to sponsor me then I would be very grateful as I want to raise as much as I can and support local children and families.”

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Alicia’s challenge comes after she spent most of 2023 laid up with an injury, but has been slowly getting back to her running pace by training at weekends, with the goal of being ready for race day later this month.

Hannah Robinson, Fundraising Engagement Officer at the charity, added: “We’d like to thank Alicia for all the hard work and dedication in training for the London Marathon and for raising such an incredible amount of money.

“Without amazing people like Alicia we would not be here for the children and families that really need us, so thank you for choosing to take on this challenge for us.

“Good luck Alicia and we can’t wait to see you coming down The Mall.”