IT is best foot forward for Wimborne lady Lauren Andrews, as she prepares to take on the 39th Virgin London Marathon.

The 21-year-old is currently in training for the event, which takes place on April 28, in a bid to raise money for Dorset disability charity Diverse Abilities.

She said: "The London Marathon has always been on my bucket list and I am very privileged to be running for Diverse Abilities.

"I can’t begin to understand the challenges families face when their child is born with a disability, but it’s great to know that a charity like Diverse Abilities is in the area to provide the vital support families need and give children and adults a fulfilling life, helping them to grow and develop during their lifetime.”

As part of her fundraising target of £2,000 Lauren is holding various fundraising activities to reach her target and is already more than 50 per cent of the way there. She recently held a bake sale where she raised £480.

Lauren added: “As part of my challenge of running the marathon, I am looking forward to giving my bit back to the local community by raising, not only money, but awareness of the work Diverse Abilities do across the county. I am determined to reach both of my goals of completing the marathon in a good time and going above and beyond the fundraising target.”

For those that were successful in the ballot and have their own place, you can choose to run for Diverse Abilities in the Virgin London Marathon and raise funds to support children and adults with disabilities in Dorset.

For further information visit diverseabilities.org.uk/events or call Amy McBrayne on 01202 718266.