A GP from Okehampton is taking on a half marathon challenge around a historic site on the other side of the world next month, to raise money for two charities of her choice.

Susan Taheri, who is a partner GP at the Okement Surgery and based in Okehampton Community Hospital, will be travelling to Cambodia on Thursday, November 26.

Miss Taheri will be running in the Angkor Wat Half Marathon to raise money for Dartmoor Ward in Okehampton Hospital and Hospicecare.

Miss Taheri said she had been training hard to prepare for the half marathon, which is 13.1 miles long.

She said: 'I have been running for the last five or six years, so I do feel quite prepared. I am a bit anxious and want to make sure everything is in place, but I am really looking forward to running the race and to take on the challenge.

'The half marathon idea arose because I run regularly and I was looking for a challenge while over there.'

Miss Taheri said it was important for her to raise funds for her chosen causes. She said: 'Hospicecare have put a lot into Okehampton hospital and for people with terminal illness.

'The Angkor Wat is a World Heritage listed site of ancient temples, so it will be quite the most unusual race I have ever taken part in and I'm really looking forward to it.'

She will also be combining her trip with a visit to her sister, who lives in Cambodia, where she plans to get her wedding dress made.

Miss Taheri said: 'I'd like to generate some publicity and hope to get as much support as I can.

'I'm actually getting married next April and wanted to get my dress made in Cambodia because of the beautiful silks they use there.

Miss Taheri will be running the half marathon on Sunday, December 6. Sponsorship forms and collection tins can be found at the Okement surgery and on Dartmoor ward at Okehampton Hospital or visit http://www.justgiving.com/therunawaybride">www.justgiving.com/therunawaybride