A FUNDRAISER from Kingswinford is preparing to tackle her first marathon in a bid to help vulnerable children.

Beth Wooldridge will be taking part in the London Marathon on Sunday, April 23, hoping to raise at least £1,800 for Barnardo’s to support the charity’s work to transform the lives of the UK’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged children and young people.

The 38-year-old is currently a team manager at the Barnardo’s ‘Think Family’ service in Birmingham.

Beth said: “I’ve worked for the charity for almost 13 years and I’ve seen first-hand the positive difference that it makes to young lives.

“We work with children and young people who have been sexually abused through exploitation, and those who are vulnerable to his awful abuse.

“This is my first London Marathon. I’ve previously done the 10K Wolf Run in Warwickshire but this is completely different.

“I’ve been doing training runs all around Kingswinford and Stourbridge and hope to complete the challenge within eight hours.

“It’s been really tough and a struggle at times, but I know it will be worth it if I can raise as much money as possible for such a good cause.”

Hugh Sherriffe, Barnardo’s regional director, said: “We are sincerely grateful for Beth’s support for the charity by undertaking such a gruelling challenge.

“We aim to raise £250,000 from the marathon each year, which is used to continue our work to provide a positive future for children, young people and their families across the UK.”

To support Beth on her London Marathon challenge and donate to Barnardo’s, visit www.justgiving.com/Beth-Wooldridge

Barnardo’s also has spaces available for the 2018 London Marathon. Apply for a place at www.barnardos.org.uk/challengeevents