Woman aims to raise cash in the long run

A RUNNER who overcame anorexia hopes to become the fastest woman to run from John O'Groats to Lands End.

Marina Anderson, 45, who was brought up in Edinburgh, is taking on the challenge to raise funds for the charity Beat Eating Disorders.

The grandmother-of-one will set off on July 16, and plans to run 840 miles in 12 days. She will be crossing the Forth Road Bridge and running through Edinburgh on July 19. She has competed in other extreme races, including the 150-mile Marathon des Sables in Morocco and a 100-mile race in the Himalayas.

But Mrs Anderson, who is now based in Kent, said this would be her "toughest challenge to date".

She said: "I suffered for over 15 years with anorexia but was lucky enough to make a full and healthy recovery. But many people aren't as fortunate. Beat Eating Disorders gives support and help to the sufferers and their families."

She began running in 1999, but said shorter races such as half-marathons soon lost their attraction.

She said: "I enjoy seeing just how far I am able to push myself – is there a limit? Over the years I seem to become stronger and stronger, finding new goals to achieve and conquer."