Portsmouth runner prepares to take on London Marathon from her living room

Katrina Fry, 32 from Milton, is tackling the equivalent distance of the London Marathon for Virgin's 2.6 challenge.

The mum-of-two, who works as a health care assistant for Trafalgar Medical Group, will be raising money for Samaritans, a 24-hour support charity for anyone going through emotional distress.

She said: ‘I’ve done a few marathons over the years for different charities, but I think fondly about Samaritans given everything they do on the mental health front.

‘It’s a brilliant charity and I’m glad to be supporting them.

‘I have a treadmill in my living room so will be trying to run the whole 26 miles on Sunday.’

As an NHS worker, Katrina has been concerned by the number of people running outdoors, saying it’s ‘impossible’ to keep your distance outside at the moment.

But with children Imogen, six, and Casey, four, by her side, she’s confident that she can crack the marathon indoors – without much preparation.

‘I’ve not done much long-distance running since we went into lockdown,’ she confessed.

‘But I've got my kids cheering me on, and I know that the thought of helping a charity that impacts so many people’s lives will keep me going.

‘I’ll just start a music playlist and crack on with it.’

Katrina has already reached her fundraising target of £260, but wants to raise as much as possible.

To donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/kat-runs-for-the-samaritans.