A WOMAN from North Dorset who took part in the London Marathon has raised over £1,700 in her dad’s memory – after six previous unsuccessful attempts to get a place for the event.

Theresa Doherty, 44, from Blandford, crossed the line in five hours and nine minutes, raising £1,780 for Bowel & Cancer Research as a tribute for her dad who passed away at the age of 47 in 1992 when Theresa was 18.

In 2010, Theresa’s mum was also diagnosed with bowel cancer. An operation to remove a tumour was successful but she is now battling lung cancer. At the same time, Theresa’s stepdad Dennis Seymour is fighting prostate cancer.

Theresa said: “Cancer has affected our family over the years and is still affecting our family today. This is a fantastic charity to raise money for. Together we can fight cancer for the future.”

Speaking of her experience at the London Marathon she said: "I found the whole experience very emotional. Seeing our friends in the crowds and having their support was amazing. Strangers were saying good luck and well done. Normally in London everyone is so busy in their own world - it's lovely that this event unites our country."

Theresa managed to get a club place through Runblandford. Her husband Neil also took part in this year’s race with a ballot place. He finished behind her in five hours and 42 minutes.

Theresa, who took up running in 2013 to get fit, enjoyed the experience so much she has already applied for a place at next year’s London Marathon.

Deborah Gilbert, Chief Executive of Bowel & Cancer Research, said: “It is our aim to ensure that no one should die of bowel cancer in future and we can only do that with the fantastic support of our fundraisers.”

Anyone who wants to support Theresa can do so at https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/TheresaDoherty1