TAVISTOCK runner Wendy Cooper tackles the gruelling London Marathon later this month to raise money for a West Devon project combatting domestic violence.

Twelve months ago, Wendy had not even run a couple of miles, let alone thought about tackling a marathon.

She was inspired to give the tough race a go after watching last year's marathon on television. 'I couldn't take my eyes off those people who were attempting something quite amazing,' she said.

'I kept thinking "I could do that" and a few months later I put my application form in. I never really thought I'd get in, but I did,' she added.

The West Devon Borough Council committee secretary said her training regime consisting of an average 35 to 40 miles a week was hard work. She hopes to complete the world's most famous race on Sunday, April 14, in under four and a half hours.

'I'm really looking forward to it. People tell me the atmosphere is fantastic.' She hopes to raise more than £500 in sponsorship for the West Devon Women's Aid outreach project. It is an issue close to her heart, as her sister Marion Playle is West Devon Council's lead officer tackling the problem of domestic violence in the borough.

Marion said: 'I think Wendy is really brave to be doing a marathon. She has put so much hard work into it. And it's fantastic that her efforts will bring in much-needed support for the outreach project. I'm really proud of her.'

The project celebrated its first anniversary last month and in its first year has received 174 calls to its confidential telephone helpline.

Project co-ordinator Janice Goodwin said the figures proved there was a definite need for the service.

'Just listening and being there helps so many victims of domestic violence. The human cost is appalling. Last year, almost every female murder in Devon was domestic violence-related,' said Mrs Goodwin.

Funding for the domestic violence outreach project is due to run out in August 2003 and further money is actively being sought.

If you want to sponsor Wendy, she or Marion can be contacted through West Devon Borough Council on 01822 813600.