TWO Addingham-born sisters completed a very successful double at Sunday's London Marathon.

Barbara Rayner, 45, of Moor Park Drive, was inspired to take part in the event after watching her sister, Kathryn Blades, compete in two previous events. Mrs Rayner, who works for Ilkley's Tesco store, decided this year was time for an Addingham sister act to make an impact in the event.

She said: "This was the first real running I have ever done, well apart from running for a bus."

She confesses her training programme did not start until February this year, but she was determined to tackle the 26 miles and 385 yards.

"I really enjoyed the day. The crowds are just so fantastic. They seem to just will you round the course," she said. Mrs Rayner hopes to have netted about £1,000 for Leukaemia Care. Sister, Kathryn, 48, who now lives in Hellifield, took part to raise funds for a family friend who lost a leg following an accident.

Mrs Rayner's time was seven hours.

completed the marathon in about seven hours. Her sister crossed the line in five-and-half hours and was there to greet her sister at the end.

"I would certainly do it again, but not just yet," joked Mrs Rayner.

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