A GRANDMOTHER is to run this year's London marathon for the first time at the age of 59.

Linda Hilson, of Manor Lane, Old Basing, who has five grandchildren, is taking part in memory of her grandson's best friend who died of cancer 10 years ago, aged just five.

She is participating in the world-famous race to raise funds for children's cancer charity CLIC Sargent and has already raised more than £1,500.

The 59-year-old, who is married with three grown-up children, said her grandson and his best pal had been friends for four years when he was diagnosed with leukaemia.

Mrs Hilson, who works as a database administrator in Basingstoke, has competed in the Bournemouth half-marathon, has run the Race for Life three times and taken part in eight gruelling London to Brighton bike marathons. But, until now, she has never had the confidence to run the London marathon.

"The London marathon is my biggest dream," she said. "I have wanted to do it for years and years but I have never trained myself to do it.

"I'm nervous, but absolutely ecstatic. It's just a wonderful feeling."

Mrs Hilson began preparing for the big event a year ago and has, just recently, run 13 miles in one training session.

"I just hope it's enough," she said. "A professional runner told me not to run the complete marathon distance as it might put me off."

The London marathon takes place this Sunday.

To sponsor Mrs Hilson, call her on 01256 322420 or visit her donation website at www.justgiving.com/LindaHilsonForKidsWithCancer