A PENSIONER from Strensall has won a book written by a fellow villager detailing her experiences of running her first marathon.

Jean Ellis won a copy of Helen Stothard’s book, It’s Just Four Times Round The Village, in a Press competition.

Jean, 74, a retired office worker who has osteoporosis, said: “Having lived in Strensall all my life, I found it very interesting to see that a local person has done so well.

“I’ve not run since I was much younger, but I’m excited to give running a go now.

“As someone living with mobility issues myself, I found it very inspiring to see that someone like me could continue to succeed even when the odds seem stacked against you.”

Mrs Stothard was diagnosed with ME more than 20 years ago. After 16 years of being a “sofa surfer”, she was inspired to start training and completed this year’s London Marathon, raising more than £1,000 for charity in the process.

Her book, priced £9.99, is full of tips for beginner runners.

The publication of the book has been well-timed. On Sunday, October 20, York will host the first Plusnet Yorkshire Marathon.

The marathon is being organised by Marathon Yorkshire Ltd, a sister company to Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All.

Jane was well renowned for raising almost £2 million for charity by tackling a series of challenges, despite being diagnosed with incurable cancer.