A MARATHON runner who took on the gruelling challenge in memory of her nan and mother-in-law has raised £1,800 for a leukaemia charity.

Hairdresser Katie Tarrant, of Holland-on-Sea, crossed the finish line in 4hrs 34 mins and described the experience as “brilliant”.

She ran the marathon for Leukaemia Care after the illness claimed the lives of nan Josephine Treumann and mother-in-law Sue Tarrant, who died in May last year.

Katie, 31, said: “On the morning of the race I felt more excited than nervous, but didn't know what to expect.

“It went well for me on the day. It was a brilliant atmosphere and carried me through, and I felt all the training was worth it in the end!”

Katie ran the Clacton Half Marathon last year, finishing in an impressive two hours and two minutes.

She smashed Sunday's target time of five hours, cheered on by family who went to support her.