A GRANNY inspired by a friend’s diagnosis of cerebral palsy will take on her first London Marathon this weekend.

Patricia Lee, from Middleton Stoney near Bicester, is donning the Lycra and lacing up for the gruelling 26-mile event on Sunday.

The grandmother-of-two wants to take on the challenge in honour of a friend who has cerebral palsy and has been helped and cared for by disability charity Contact.

She said: “My handsome friend Harry has cerebral palsy and he and his mum told me about Contact and the fantastic work the charity does.

“It seemed to me that they should know what they are talking about and so I have set about raising money to help Contact reach even more superstars like Harry and their families.”

The 58-year-old fundraiser has previously taken on two marathons including 26 miles through Edinburgh but admits she is not a fan of running despite signing up once again for a marathon –this time through the country’s captial.

She added: “To be honest, although I have already run marathons in Edinburgh and Chester in the past, I don’t like running really and keep making excuses for not doing my training.

“Instead I have focused on what I am better at, which is the fundraising part.

“I am very excited about representing Contact and look forward to spotting all the other Contact runners – probably as they run past me.

“The charity gives such amazing support to so many families and knowing that I will be raising vital funds to help Contact continue its work will really help me focus on my first London Marathon.”

Contact works to provide support and advice to families with disabled children – whatever their disability or medical condition.

Support comes from its helpline, parent guides, fact sheets and workshops.

It also brings families together in local groups and online to support each other by sharing experiences and advice.

Ms Lee had a target of raising £1,800 to help Contact continue its vital work with families across the country. But she has already smashed this ambitious target it by collecting more than £2,000 – and counting.

Contact spokeswoman Kaya Korablina said: “We know that running 26 miles is a monumental challenge.

“We are incredibly proud and humbled by our runners’ dedication, hard work, training and fundraising to support our work.

“It really does make a difference and helps us to continue to provide vital support to families with disabled children up and down the country.”

p To donate to Ms Lee go online to justgiving.com/fundraising/patricialeelondonmarathon2018