When Epsom mum Fiona Lyall runs the London Marathon next month, it will be her fourth 26-mile endurance run in 18 months.

But the latest marathon is possibly the one closest to her heart, as she is raising money for St John's Ambulance where two of her children are members.

Her daughters Heather, eight, and Freya, six, are members of Badgers - the youth wing of the St John's Ambulance - which meets at St John House, Hook Road.

At Badger meetings they take part in games and activities as well as develop important life saving skills which their mum hopes will be useful in later life.

Mrs Lyall is only too aware of the importance of the St John's Ambulance as they are ever-present at the races she runs as a member of the running club Epsom Allsorts.

She also competes further afield, and has recently taken part in the New York, Rotterdam and Amsterdam marathons.

The London Marathon on April 22 will be extra special though, as she will be raising money for a good cause and attempting to go under four hours for the first time.

"I run all these races and St John are always there," the 35-year-old said. "I thought I'd give something back - it's definitely a good cause."