A mother-of-two is taking part in the London Marathon.

Diane Garrad, 39, of Taylor Drive, Lawford, wanted to take part before her 40th birthday but has twice had her application turned down.

Mrs Garrad said: "I rang the organisers asking to go on next year's list, when I would still be 40, and was asked if I wanted to go on the reserve list.

"I got a call saying someone had pulled out and would I like to take part, so I've had to step up my training."

Mrs Garrad works as an accounts assistant at Acorn Village, Clacton Road, Mistley, a home for adults with learning difficulties.

She will be running for the Multiple Sclerosis resource centre in Colchester and hopes to raise more than £1,500.

Published Tuesday, March 1, 2005

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