A university student is not only tackling the Virgin Money London Marathon 2019, but also trying to raise £2,000 in the process.

Ottilie Whelan from Blackawton is running one of the world’s most prestigious races on Sunday, April 28.

While fitting in the long hours running and training, Ottilie is raising money for Children with Cancer UK.

The former Kingsbridge Community College student is raising money through bag packing, selling old clothes, a sweep stake and hosting dinner parties, to name a few.

She said: “This has been one of the most challenging experiences I have ever done, both physically and mentally. However, it is the incredible cause that keeps me motivated.”

The charity Ottilie has chosen hopes to give every child the best chance of survival through funding specialist research into treatments and caring for both the patients and their families.

“Therefore, any donations, no matter how large or small, make a huge difference in helping to create a future in which every child with cancer survives and can ring the end of treatment bell.

“I’d like to thank those who have already supported my cause, especially Morrison’s in Totnes which allowed me to raise £187 through bag packing.”

The Durham University student failed to gain a place in the marathon through the ballot last year, and said she was “over the moon” to be given a place to run for this charity.

“It still shocks me that when I started training I could hardly run 5k but I managed 18 miles last week.

“I am incredibly excited to be a part of the CWCUK team and experience the famous atmosphere in London.

“I hope to continue running after the event as I have found it to be a great escapism and stress-relief; it really is true that anyone can run.”

To follow Ottilie’s story you can follow her Instagram page @ottiliesrunning and to donate to her fundraising page visit https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/OttilieWhelan