TWO Wyre Forest women are hoping to raise thousands for charities close to their hearts by competing in the world-famous London Marathon. Michelle Rogers and Jennifer Badham in training for this year's London Marathon.

Jennifer Badham, from Kidderminster, has set a target of raising £1,000 for Breast Cancer Care when she takes part in the 26-mile run on Sunday, April 22.

And she will be joined by 26-year-old Stourport confectioner Michelle Rogers - a fellow member of Kidderminster's Amazing Feet running club - who hopes to raise "as much as possible" in sponsorship for The National Endometriosis Society.

She is a former sufferer of the painful womb condition, which affects as many as two million women in Britain.

Mrs Badham, 54, said a number of her friends had been affected by breast cancer. She has raised about £500 in sponsorship so far.

Both women are keen runners and took part in a marathon at Stratford-upon-Avon last year.

Anyone wanting to sponsor Mrs Badham should call the Breast Cancer Care team on 020 7384 4620, while Mrs Rogers can be contacted on 01299 823195.