THREE East Lancashire women have been pounding the pavements in a bid to limber up for the London Marathon.

The dedicated trio from Oakhill College, Whalley, have been putting in the miles in a bid to take part in the 26-mile marathon on April 13.

Reception teacher Karen O'Kane from Hapton and parent Lorraine Bray from Salesbury raised cash for charity after taking part in last year's event.

And they are being joined in their endeavours this year by school bursar Liz McHugh, who is from Whalley. Liz said: "Having witnessed the superb fund raising efforts of Karen and Lorraine, I was keen to do the same. I lost my dad last year to Motor Neurone Disease, a condition that was unknown to me at the time.

"In a bid to aid research into the disease and offer some relief to those affected by it, I have pledged to raise £2,000 pounds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association, quite a challenge!"

To sponsor Liz, contact the bursar's office at Oakhill College on 01254 823546.