Lucy Whiting and Leigh Sitch to run the London Marathon

Two friends have pledged to run the London Marathon for charities close to their hearts.

Lucy Whiting and Leigh Sitch have both decided to overcome their dislike for running to raise money for Dementia Revolution and Twins And Multiple Births Association (Tamba).

Lettings manager Lucy was inspired by her grandmother, Kay, who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease.

“She is a completely different person to what I remember from when I was very small,” said the 30-year-old from Diss. “She is not the person you know and love.

“Thankfully, she knows who I am but she can’t do a lot herself. She can’t eat on her own and it affects her ability to read and speak.”

Lucy hopes to raise £2,000 to support research for a diseases that currently does not have a cure.

“My nan’s had it for 15 years and I know it’s not necessarily going to do anything for her in her life, but, hopefully, it will help others in the future,” said Lucy.

Both keen hockey players, Lucy and Leigh met 19 years ago at Harleston Magpies.

As a father of two-year-old twins, Leigh has decided to raise £2,500 for Tamba, after having received invaluable support from the charity.

Multiple pregnancies are at far higher risk of developing complications.

The 32-year-old teacher at Langley School said: “We know that we are very lucky to have two healthy little boys and that we were blessed with being able to hold them seconds after being born. We have read many stories of parents and families who have not been so lucky.”

Tamba is working on reducing the risks faced before, during and after birth.

“A lot of people are unaware that Tamba exists or of the good work they do. So running the London Marathon also raises awareness,” said Leigh, from Harleston.

To donate, visit Lucy's or Leigh's fundraising website.