A LAMERTON resident will run her first London marathon for World Cancer Research on April 26 at the age of 61.

Jeanie Cox, whose husband is West Devon and Torridge MP Geoffrey Cox, has been in training by running several half marathons in Bath and London recently and is now gearing up for 'the ultimate challenge' — 26 miles of the streets around London.

She can often be seen running in all weathers between Lamerton and Brentor or on the cycle track between Lydford and Okehampton.

Jeanie said: 'My mother, Pat, and my Aunt Barbara both died of cancer within just a few weeks of each other and I have supported cancer research charities for many years.

'I had always wanted to run the London Marathon for my mother and aunt and to raise money for Cancer Research before it was too late and I am determined to make it round!

'World Cancer Research is an excellent charity, which concentrates on preventing cancer as well as curing it and I am really pleased to be wearing its colours and helping to support its objectives.'

A quiz and supper night has been organised at the Lamerton Village Hall at 6.30pm on Friday, March 20, to support Jeanie's fundraising.

Jeanie added: 'I am so grateful to the many people in Lamerton and Tavistock who are helping and supporting me.

'We are going to have a really good time on Friday and with a bit of luck, it will give me the boost necessary to make the finishing line on April 26.'

For tickets to the quiz and supper night at Lamerton Village Hall call 07734 106615.