VETERAN runner Marie Caldwell is certainly living life in the fast lane as she prepares to run from Blackpool to Bury.

Marie , 62, of Holcombe Brook will be putting on her running shoes for the mammoth 50-mile run in aid of Bury Hospice.

Not one to do things by halves, Marie plans to leave Blackpool's Savoy Hotel next Sunday (May 14) and set off on the 10-hour run back to Bury Hospice on Dumers Lane, Radcliffe.

Marie's husband, Eddie, came up with the idea after the couple moved their business, The Northern Institute of Massage, to Bury.

"The route is symbolic for both of us," said Marie. "We moved our business so it seemed like the obvious route to take."

Along the way Marie will be dropping off goodwill messages to hospices in Preston and Bolton.

The run will be a new challenge for Marie who is used to running on athletics tracks.

"I wanted a new challenge and this is certainly one. This will be a lot different as I will have to contend with roads, hills, and junctions."

Marie has won numerous British and European records for ultra distance running since she began the sport 17 years ago.

Marie is still in need of sponsorship. If you would like to make a donation ring her on 01204 88 7305 or 797 1800.