A teacher at a Dagenham school is inspiring pupils with her bid to take on the London Marathon.

Alexandra Colley, 24, from Clydesdale Road, Hornchurch, will take part in the annual long-distance running event on April 23.

She said: “It has been a lifelong ambition to run the marathon.

“I was inspired to run it after seeing some friends complete it – it sounds like such a big achievement.

“I wanted to help make a difference to the lives of young children and adults.

“It will be physically and mentally challenging but most probably the best day of my life.”

Her chosen charity, Whizz Kidz, provides disabled children with essential wheelchair and other mobility equipment they need to enjoy fun and active lives.

Alexandra said she chose Whizz Kidz to “support children with disabilities.”

A teacher at William Bellamy Primary School, she told of her pride in inspiring pupils at the school through completing a 26 mile distance walk for Cancer Research.

“When I go in they love my medals,” she said. “It’s my fourth year of teaching there - the kids are inspired.”

To sponsor Alexandra, you can donate to her fundraiser at whizz-kidz-london-marathon17.everydayhero.com/uk/Alexandra

To find out more about Whizz Kids, you can call them on 020 7233 9696