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Gym-goers Simon Blunsdon and Lianne Fletcher are set to run their first marathon this April for children’s charity NSPCC.

Dad-of-two Simon, from Caerphilly, said he has wanted to run a marathon for a long time, and said if you’re going to run one, then London is the place to do it.

He continued: “A marathon is an achievement and the London Marathon is the biggest marathon on the globe, it’s the one to do. It’s something that’s on the bucket list if you like.

“The cream on the top is doing it for the NSPCC. It’s an opportunity to raise awareness, raise some funds and contribute to such a worthwhile cause.”

While the 47-year-old ran a half-marathon in 2006, he added how this will be his biggest challenge yet.

It will also be a first marathon for Lianne, who has been training and taking part in fundraising activities alongside Simon.

The pair are hoping to raise £2,200 for the NSPCC and have already managed to reach more than £800 thanks to fundraising events at Creazione gym, on Caerphilly’s Western Industrial Estate.

Lianne said: “I feel nervous about running in the London Marathon as it is my biggest challenge yet.

“Mentally it will test me, although I believe in mind over matter. I have been running on and off for years but I have increased my training regime since signing up for the marathon.”

Jess Finnegan, community fundraising and partnerships manager at NSPCC Cymru, said: “Running a marathon takes a lot of dedication, and we are really grateful to Simon and Lianne for taking on this challenge in support of the NSPCC.

“We wish them and all those taking part in the event the best of luck.

“All money raised by people running for the NSPCC will go towards our vital work in preventing abuse and helping those affected to recover.”

Visit Simon and Lianne’s online fundraising page to support them ahead of the race on Sunday April 21.