A runner tackled her first marathon at the weekend to raise hundreds of pounds for a charity which helps families affected by neurofibromatosis.

Rachel Phillips, who works at Paul Verity Opticians on The Grove, Ilkley, completed the Wolverhampton Marathon on Sunday in four hours 21 minutes and 49 seconds.

She has already raised about £400 for charity The Neuro Foundation, but is encouraging others to sponsor her online or call in at the shop to make a donation.

She was inspired to support the cause by her friend’s daughter, Katie Smith, of Idle, Bradford.

Katie, eight, has neurofibromatosis, deals with pain on a daily basis, has had spine surgery, and is due to undergo more surgery this month.

For more details, visit virginmoneygiving.com/RachelPhillips2.