A MUM who took an eight-year break from running will be lacing up her trainers again to raise money for St Helena Hospice.

Claire Smith will be running the London Marathon in April to raise funds to thank hospice staff in Colchester who looked after her mother-in-law in her last days.

Patricia Smith died at the hospice about five years ago when she was in her late 70s.

The hospice had looked after her as well as Claire and her family, offering support during their loss.

Claire, 39, took part in the London Marathon 11 years ago, but was injured part-way round and had to limp the rest of the way.

She hopes this time, the experience will be more positive.

Claire, of Kingfisher Way, Kelvedon, said: “The hospice provided care for my mother-in-law in the months leading up to her death.

“They were amazing and supported us as a family, we have maintained contact with them.

“They make you feel like part of the family, they called the funeral parlours for us and they offered emotional support.”

About three years ago, Claire took up running again and has started training for the marathon.

She said: “I did the London Marathon 11 years ago and it was a lot easier then in that I was younger and I hadn’t had two children.

“I injured myself part of the way round and had to walk the last six or seven miles

“It wasn’t a pleasurable experience.”

Last year, she took part in two half-marathons and this year started following a marathon training programme, which includes running four times a week.

All seems to be well so far, but she admitted she is not looking forward to the longer distances.

Thankfully on the big day her husband, Mark, and two children, who are seven and four, will be cheering her on.

The hospice cares for people across north Essex who have life-limiting illnesses offering in-patient and outreach support.

They also support families both at the time of the bereavement and afterwards.

To donate to Claire’s fundraising total, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ClaireSmith205.