A TEACHER from Droitwich is running the London Marathon to help raise money for a charity close to her heart.

Christine Nutter, aged 49, of Primsland Drive, is preparing to put herself through the wringer in three weeks to help raise cash for a charity that cares for sick children.

Her own daughter, 13-year old Helen, grew up with a blood disorder known as chronic itp and has to have daily penicillin. Now she wants to help give something back to the people who have provided help for her family by raising funds for them.

Money from her efforts on Sunday, April 22, will go towards WellChild, which offers support and information to children who are ill.

Mrs Nutter, who teaches at Alice Ottley Junior School, said: "My own daughter has a blood disorder called chronic itp, which is when anti-bodies destroy the platelets.

"She had to have her spleen removed and uses penicillin every day. I've never done the London Marathon before and I thought, why not give it a go.

"I've always been a recreational runner, but only really started training for it in September. I'm doing about 30 miles a week and tend to divide it up into one long 20-mile run and three smaller ones.

"I'm getting a bit apprehensive about it as the day draws closer, but I'm looking forward to taking part."

She has raised the £1,500 needed to take part in the race for WellChild, but is after more donations.

To donate some money, she can be contacted on 01905 774190 or log on to www.justgiving.com/christinenutter.