A language and speech therapist recently completed her first marathon with the aim of raising money for people with motor neurone disease.

Kate Holcombe has raised £965 for the Motor Neurone Disease Association since running in the New York Marathon earlier this month, and is hoping to make it to £1,000.

Kate, from Kingsbridge, discovered that while working with a man with MND several years ago, they both shared an interest in running. During their sessions she agreed one day she would run the NYC Marathon for the MNDA.

Finally, after many years, Kate said she called her own bluff and managed to snag a place in the 26.2 mile race.

Several months ago, Kate had difficulty with her right ankle and had to limit her training runs. She received support from physiotherapist John Moore, and was able to cross-train with Kate Moss at Ignite Spin Studio, which she said allowed her to continue her challenge.

She said the “energetic and entertaining atmosphere” from the spectators at the marathon, along with the “overwhelming support from friends, colleagues and family” helped her to enjoy the run and get through the mixed emotions of the day.

Kate completed the marathon in three hours and 58 minutes.

She is now hoping to raise £1,000 for the MNDA, and has a JustGiving page, should anyone be interested. To contribute to Kate’s fundraising efforts, visit justgiving.com and search for Kate-Holcombe.