A FORMER palliative care consultant is tackling the London Marathon in support of the hospice where she worked for nearly two decades.

Linda Wilson is pounding the streets of the capital on Sunday, April 23, to raise funds for Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice Manorlands.

She started at the hospice in 2003 and worked there until last year.

"The care that Manorlands can offer is on a different level," says Linda, whose overall career in palliative care stretches back more than 30 years.

"It is a very special place and it’s been such a privilege to provide care to so many patients and families over the years.

"I’m still really passionate about supporting people to have a good end-of-life experience in their preferred place – whether that is in a hospital, hospice or at home."

Linda says she is looking forward to her marathon challenge, but admits to being nervous.

"I would not describe myself as a runner at all so this is a big challenge for me," she says.

"I have done one other marathon, which was ten years ago to celebrate my 50th birthday, so this is an opportunity to mark my 60th while also raising funds for a cause close to my heart.

"Training has been tough. I have got up to 20-mile runs, but it is hard to go out when it is cold or wet – or both! However I feel lucky as I know that many people are not fortunate to be well enough to do something like this.

“I am running the marathon with a friend, Annette, who was a consultant at Sue Ryder Wheatfields hospice in Leeds for many years. It’ll be an amazing atmosphere and I am looking forward to it – but I’m a bit nervous too. For me it’s not about the time it takes me to finish, it’s just getting over the line."

Hayley Ibbotson, senior community fundraiser at Manorlands, says: "We’re so grateful to Linda for showing her ongoing support of our hospice by taking on this iconic challenge.

"We remain heavily reliant on individuals donating and fundraising for us, and every pound will help us to continue to offer our compassionate care and support to local people and their families – and fill someone’s last days with love."

Linda has set up an online fundraising page, at 2023tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/linda-wilson, and she has so far raised just over £2,500.