A LADY from Bude is putting herself through her paces to train for the London Marathon to raise vital funds for children with cancer.

Paula Baker, who works as lead science technician at Budehaven Community School, will be putting her fitness to the test on Sunday, April 28 by taking on the Virgin Money London Marathon to raise money for CLIC Sargent, the UK’s leading cancer charity for children and young people.

She said: “It’s going to be a really big challenge for me, particularly as I struggle with asthma and knee problems, but I’m determined to complete the marathon and am really proud to be a part of ‘Team CLIC Sargent’, doing what I can to help the charity.

“I’ve personally seen the real difference the charity makes to young people with cancer and their families and thinking of that will get me across the finish line.

“I want to raise as much money as possible because cancer really turns families’ lives upside down and I want CLIC Sargent to be there to support everyone who needs it. I’d love it if the kind people of Bude and surrounding areas get behind my challenge and help to raise vital funds.”

Jade Clarke, major runs project manager at CLIC Sargent, said: “When cancer strikes young lives we fight tirelessly to limit the damage it causes beyond their health through practical, emotional and financial support. We rely entirely on donations to fund our vital work and so we can’t thank Paula Baker for her incredible efforts.

“Training for a marathon is a huge commitment. From all the lie-ins Paula has sacrificed to get out of bed and run to every blister they’ve encountered — we are so appreciative of their hard work and determination. We’ll be there on the day cheering Paula all the way to the finish line!”

Paula has already undertaken two half marathons in her intense training schedule, as well as organising a multitude of fundraising events to date, such as Bude’s Big Raffle for CLIC, mug and plant pot decorating clubs at her school, name the teddies, bag-packing at Morrisons and quiz nights.

Jade added: “The big challenge Paula is taking on will make a massive difference for young people with cancer by helping us ensure they are getting the right support they need.”

To sponsor Paula’s London Marathon effort, please go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising /paularunning26 or she has collection pots in Toymaster Bude and Bude Tyre Supplies.