A runner is taking on a marathon challenge for a reason very close to her heart.

Wallington mum Maria Goldby is running the London Marathon to raise money for the Rainbow Trust Children's Charity.

Mrs Goldby's daughter Elise was diagnosed with leukaemia at 18 months old starting a relationship with the charity which has lasted 10 years.

Elsie passed away in 2005 but since then her mum has been a dedicated fundraiser and took on the 26-mile race in 2011, raising £9,000.

This year she is racing again and hopes to raise even more.  She said: "We were introduced to Rainbow Trust just before Elise turned two and throughout her life received such wonderful and supportive care.

"Our family support worker, Sue, was simply wonderful and was always on hand; whether it was to drive us to Elise’s radiotherapy appointments, to enable me to do the shopping; or simply to be at the end of the phone. 

"I’m not sure we could have managed without the emotional support they provided and they also put us in touch with other families facing similar situations and outcomes. 

"Although Elise was at the heart of their support, Rainbow Trust also managed to find ways in which to support our son, who was 18 at the time."

If you would like to sponsor Mrs Goldby you can visit: www.virginmoneygiving.com/MariaGoldby1.