THREE members of a Thornton-le-Dale family have set themselves the challenge of running the London Marathon on Sunday to raise money for The Outward Bound Trust.

Mum Pam, dad Colin and eldest daughter Rachel Garnett have never run a marathon before.

Pam said: “It’s a real privilege to be part of the London Marathon and we are excited and terrified at the same time.

“We took up running when we discovered Saturday morning parkrun and never expected to be running a marathon just over four years later.

“It’s fantastic to now have the Dalby Forest parkrun so close to home and it’s really friendly and welcoming.”

The family, including their youngest daughter Lucy, then started to tackle longer distances of 10k then half marathons.

Pam said her fondest running memory was crossing the finishing line of The Great North Run hand in hand with Rachel.

Pam joined Pickering Running Club two years ago and persuaded Colin to join this year.

“I’m grateful for the support, advice and friendship I’ve had from the other members,” she said.

The Outward Bound Trust runs outdoor learning courses in the UK to equip young people with skills for life such as self confidence, team working and leadership.

Pam said: “We want to thank everyone who has sponsored us, donated raffle prizes for our fundraising events, printed our names on our running vests for no charge and waved or tooted their horns at us when we have been out training in all weathers.”

To donate, go to uk.virginmoneygiving.com/PamGarnett.

Another local ready for the big race is Nigel Kitching, 66, who works at a West Knapton stables and is running on behalf of Racing Welfare. He said: “Please donate to this small charity, it really goes to a good cause.”

To support it, go to uk.virginmoneygiving.com/giving and search Nigel Kitching.