A community development officer from Tower Hamlets will fight Achilles tendonitis to run this year’s London Marathon for the first time for a disabled people’s charity.

Laura Beswick, 27, of Cambridge Heath Road, will join more than 30,000 runners at this year’s London Marathon – and she’s running it for the first time.

Laura hopes to raise �3,000 for Leonard Cheshire Disability, a voluntary sector that supports thousands of disabled people and provides innovative services that give them the opportunity to live life their way.

Laura said: “I’m running for Leonard Cheshire Disability because my nana was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and spent the rest of her life in a wheelchair. I can’t imagine how it must feel to have your independence and mobility reduced in this way.

“At mile 25 when I’ll want to break down and cry, I’ll remind myself to be thankful for all the privileges I’m lucky enough to have.”

While training, Laura developed Achilles tendonitis in February, which has set her training back.

She added: “My training routine consists of one run per week, then six days of stretching, yoga, ice baths and running in water.

“I think it might have to come down to willpower on the day. Running for Leonard Cheshire Disability will be a real motivation.”

Laura has previously raised �520 from a speed dating night at Firefly Bar, in St Pauls, back in November.

Emma Barker, Events Officer at Leonard Cheshire Disability, said: “We are delighted that Laura is running the London Marathon to raise funds for Leonard Cheshire Disability.

“We wish her lots of luck for over the coming weeks, and look forward to seeing her at the finish line.”

To make a donation, visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/LauraBeswick.