A local woman is lacing-up her running shoes for a marathon fund-raising challenge. Donna Longhurst, of Templeton, will be taking part in the London Marathon to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Relief. Donna, who needs to raise a minimum of £1,700, has not run a marathon before, but has taken part in numerous local runs for good causes. "I feel that this is such a great opportunity and one not to be missed," said 33-year-old Donna. To help her conquer the 26.2 miles, Donna has dedicated every couple of miles to friends and family who have been affected by cancer. Some of the miles will be in memory of those who have lost their lives to the disease, while others will be in celebration of those who are in remission. Office manager at the family business, K. P. Thomas and Son, of Templeton, Donna will be running miles one to 12 on Sunday, April 17, in memory of her aunts Mrs. Betty Morris and Mrs. Olwyn Lewis, her uncle Mr. Ken Mason and friends Mr. Richard Squirrell, Mr. Ronnie Poole and Mrs. Gillian Morgan. Then she will be clocking up miles 13 to 24 remembering the successful recovery of her aunts Mrs. Bronwen Scourfield and Mrs. Margaret Mason, her uncle Mr. Ellis Mason, her sister-in-law Mrs. Tracy Longhurst, her sister-in-law's mum Mrs. Eileen Roberts and her friend Ms Yvonne Longhurst. "The other 2.2 miles left, I will be dedicating to my family and friends for helping me to believe that this was possible," said Donna, who herself overcame a serious illness six years ago which paralysed her. Anyone who would like to sponsor Donna can send their donations to her at K. P. Thomas and Son, Course Hill Fuel Depot, Upper Carne Road, Templeton. Cheques should be made payable to Donna Longhurst, London Marathon. Alternatively, there are sponsor forms at Bridge Stores, Kilgetty, as well as the K. P. Thomas depot. As well as the sponsorship, a raffle is being held to help raise funds. The prize is either 100 gallons of heating oil, 10 bags of coal or five bottles of gas and all the K. P. Thomas drivers are selling tickets. The draw will take place on Wednesday, April 13.
