YORK couple Fiona and Andy Hick have taken on a marathon challenge to raise money for a charity that helped them survive a personal crisis.

Fiona, 29, suffered from postnatal depression after the birth of her four-year-old daughter, Imogen.

She says that without the help of the National Childbirth Trust (NCT) she would not be where she is today.

The couple, who also have an 18-month-old son, Evan, decided to tackle the gruelling London Marathon in April to help repay the NCT for all their support.

But Fiona, of Woodthorpe, York, said that they had found it difficult to juggle the intense training with looking after their two children.

She said: "It is very difficult but we are determined to do it.

"We have to train on alternate nights from each other so one of us can stay at home with the kids."

The couple are also currently receiving physiotherapy for injuries caused by training. Car mechanic, Andy, 38, has a calf injury while Fiona has injured her knee. But they are adamant they will overcome their injuries and run in the race.

They have already collected £1,300 for the charity, including holding a fun day at the Asda supermarket at Monks Cross, York.

There was a tombola, raffle and children's tattoos and the person who cycled the fastest on an exercise bike was awarded a prize.

Anyone who wants to help the Hicks reach their £2,000 target should phone them on 01904 789719.

Updated: 09:54 Saturday, March 15, 2003