A BROMSGROVE woman is in training to run the London Marathon in memory of her nieces.

Liz Turton will be joining thousands of other runners at the world famous event on Sunday, April 21.

The 39-year-old is running the 26.2 mile distance in memory of nieces Daisy, who was still born in 2009, and Poppy, who died of the life-threatening inherited disease cystic fibrosis.

Liz discovered she is a carrier of the gene that causes cystic fibrosis, which further motivated her to raise money for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust.

The trust supports research and clinical care, and provides practical support to people with cystic fibrosis, and their families.

Liz said: “I am a keen runner and have always wanted to do the London Marathon, so I am very excited but a bit nervous about completing my first ever marathon.

“Cystic fibrosis is a cruel illness and only half of those with the condition will live past their 41st birthday. We desperately need to raise money for more research.”

Liz will be running the marathon in an eye-catching floral shirt, covered in poppies and daisies, worn by Richard Arnold in the last series of Strictly Come Dancing.

Her mum, Ann, spotted the shirt and wrote to the show, asking where she could buy one.

To her surprise she was sent the shirt and when Liz saw it she decided it would be ideal for her marathon run.

So far Liz has raised £342 but she has set a £2,000 target and needs the support of Bromsgrove residents. 

Liz is also hoping to encourage fund-raisers who have gained a place in this year’s marathon, to run it for the cause she is supporting.

Anyone who wishes to make a donation to Liz’s charity run can do so through her fund-raising website, uk.virginmoneygiving.com/LizTurton.

Anyone with a place in the marathon, interested in running for the charity, can find out more by calling 0300 373 1100, or email events@cftrust.org.uk.