A LONGHOPE woman is taking on the London Marathon in aid of the Royal British Legion this Sunday (April 24).

Fiona Greaves, who lives in Little London, only started training in February after another runner had to withdraw through injury.

She said: “This is my third and last time running the London Marathon. The Royal British Legion is a charity very close to my heart. My dad, grandad and great grandad were all serving soldiers and then I married a soldier.

“As a physiotherapist who worked for the Ministry of Defence for 10 years, I have first-hand experience of the importance of the Battle Back centres the Royal British Legion helps fund. The courses help injured service personnel regain confidence and life skills through sport and adventure training.

“They support these men and women to live independently and rebuild their lives after devastating injuries. Veterans receive help adapting to civilian life and, of course, we all know the work of the Royal British Legion in ensuring we remember those who gave their lives in combat. I am immensely proud to be running as part of Team Legion this Sunday.”

Fiona says she hopes to raise £1,000 which will help the legion provide vital support to the armed forces community, including employment and housing advice, holiday breaks for those recovering from an illness or bereavement, and recovery support.

Fiona, who works at Forest Physiotherapy in Mitcheldean, added: “I am thrilled to have support from Longhope Rainbows, who are sponsoring their ‘Olivia doll’ to accompany me around the 26.2-mile course and for the support I have received from locals.”