A WOMAN who completed the London Marathon in memory of a close friend who died of cancer - leaving behind her two-year-old son - is thanking anonymous donors who helped her raise nearly £4,000.

Angela Purdham, 35, from Fulford, York, completed the marathon in memory of Sarah Matthews, who died last October from bowel cancer.

Angela said that Sarah was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 33, when she was 32 weeks pregnant with her son Sam. After giving birth to Sam she immediately had an operation to remove the cancer.

Sarah battled bravely for two and a half years, undergoing chemotherapy, but sadly died on October 23.

Angela decided to run the marathon to help raise money for Child Bereavement, a charity that helps families who have lost someone close to them.

She said: “The marathon was a truly amazing experience.

“I feel genuinely privileged to have been able to take part in it and raise awareness and support for a charity so close to my heart in honour of such a wonderful friend.

“Despite having supported others running the marathon in previous years nothing could have prepared me for the experience of running it with the support of thousands of people lining the streets."

Angela said she took the advice of her sister and devoted some of the toughest miles to Sarah.

She added: “It gave me such a boost and meant I was able to complete the marathon with a smile on my face and a huge feeling of pride and achievement.

“To date I have raised over £3,800 which is just absolutely incredible for Child Bereavement UK, it will make such a difference to the families and children they support and I am just thrilled to have been able to help them and so grateful for the generous support of friends, family and so many generous people who have come across my story and decided to donate.”

Angela, who works as a participation officer at the University of York, added that she always thought she would never complete a marathon, but Sarah had inspired her to run for anyone who is coping with bereavement and needs the support offered by Child Bereavement UK.

To donate, visit https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/AngelaPurdham