Marathan effort (From Barry And District News)

Marathan effort

A BARRY building society employee is tackling the gruelling London Marathon for Barnardo's.

Thirty-year old investment manager Paula Spittle has worked in the Holton Road branch of the Principality for four years.

A member of the Le Croupiers Running Group, she takes part in many charity races. Just three weeks ago, she ran 20 miles in three hours and 54 minutes.

This is her very first London Marathon.

She told the News: "I've put the training in, running between 35 and 40 miles a week since my place was confirmed on January 1.

"As long as nothing goes wrong, like I pull a muscle or break a leg on the day, I'll be fine. I want to finish in under five hours, as a personal target."

To qualify for the marathon, runners have to raise £1,500.

Over half-way there, Paula is making a last push for the cash.

She said: "Most of my sponsorship has come from our customers, my colleagues, my family and friends.

They've all been brilliant. Thanks to them, I've managed to raise £850.

"I need the last £650, and my friend Claire Lloyd and I have been all over South Wales with our buckets to find the extra funds."

Paula will be at the starting line this Sunday, and her mum and dad, Shirley and Mike Spittle, Lord Mayor of Tredegar, will be at the finishing line to greet her.