Weather makes marathon training a test for Laura

Laura works for Trinity Mirror, based in One Canada Square. This is the 33-year-old's first attempt at a marathon, and she found training difficult with the region still gripped by wintry weather.

She said: "The hardest thing has been to get out there when the weather has been so horrible. We had so much snow when I started training eight weeks ago I had to use the treadmill in the work gym.

"It's been a bit better recently and I've started running to work from my home in Leyton, which is about six miles. I did my first 12 mile run last weekend, which was an interesting experience. It went okay, certainly better than the week before when my body just didn't want to run."

With two months to go until the April 25 event there's still plenty of time for runners to get that vital mileage under their belts. Laura hopes to complete the course inside five hours, although she is under no illusions about the challenge.

She said: "If I can get round in between four-and-a-half and five hours it will be a great achievement. It's my first marathon, so I'm just looking forward to the experience. I know it's going to be tough but I'm determined to get round."

As with most runners Laura will be raising money for charity. Her chosen cause is Havens Hospices, which provide respite breaks, sympton control and end-of-life care for adults and children with serious illnesses.

To sponsor Laura visit justgiving.com/laura-knight.