AN Oakenshaw man is looking to give Paula Radcliffe a run for her money when he takes part in the London Marathon.

Alan Lawrence (pictured), of Painswick Close, is hoping to raise at least £1,200 for Vitalise, a charity which provides breaks for disabled people and their carers.

The 46-year-old dad, who has just recovered from a broken foot, joked he still hoped to give Britain's top marathon runner a bit of a challenge.

To sponsor him, call 07970388058 or 453090.

HUSBAND and wife Lawrence and Susan Taylor are running the Flora London Marathon in aid of a worthwhile cause.

The Church Hill couple (above) will each complete the arduous 26-mile trek on April 17 in the hope of raising pots of cash for an ovarian cancer charity.

Mrs Taylor, 55, is a marathon fanatic since taking up running eight years ago. She has since completed 12 full marathons including London, New York and Scotland in aid of charities such as Breast Cancer Research and Children in Need.

Her husband, 63, is also a keen runner and has completed six marathons.

"We are training together at the moment," said Mrs Taylor, who lives in Snowshill Close.

The couple are looking for sponsorship and anyone interested can call them on 64537.

HOPING to improve on his achievement in last year's London Marathon, Mike Schofield from Where Next Association is entering again.

Mr Schofield (right) is a well-known face around Redditch through his work managing the Shades of Green gardening business for Where Next.

He'll be running with his brother and the sponsorship money will be split between the Voluntary Association for Surrey Disabled and Where Next Association.

Anyone who would like to sponsor him can call 69955.