A SCHOOL support worker is preparing to take on a marathon to raise cash for a charity.

Mum-of-four Marina Farmera, 44, from Chelmsford, is aiming to fulfil her dream of crossing the finish line at this year’s London Marathon in aid of The Children’s Society. Marina will be running the 26.2 mile course on Sunday April 23 as part of a team of 120 runners, to raise funds for The Children’s Society.

The charity works with the most vulnerable children across the country suffering abuse, hardship and neglect.

Marina said: “I have only run 10K before so this is all very new territory for me.

“I wanted to run the marathon as a personal challenge but also to be a role model for my children. They all think I’m amazing for doing this, and mad!

“There has been nothing easy about the training so far. It has taken every ounce of willpower I possess to go out in the dark, freezing and wet mornings to complete my training runs, but when I think about the children and young people I am running for it has really helped me to push onwards and I can’t wait for marathon day now.”

Reena Ruda, The Children’s Society’s Challenge Events Co-ordinator, said: “We are so grateful to Marina for her inspiring efforts and determination to help vulnerable children and young people.

“Every penny raised by Marina and all our marathon runners will help The Children’s Society continue its life-changing work with children who often have nowhere else to turn.”

Marina’s online sponsorship page can be viewed at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Marina-Farmer