Three of the News Shopper editorial team are planning to run this year’s London Marathon.

For website manager Paul Lagan, it will be his ninth London Marathon, while for reporters Emma Coutts-Wood and Lucy Brinicombe it will be the first time they attempt the 26 miles 385 yard event, which takes place on Sunday April 14.

Emma said: “I’m not a runner but a plodder, but I’m sure I’ll be able to do it at a steady pace.”

Lucy, who trains with Emma four times a week, said: “It’s something I have always wanted to do and what’s really great is we will be raising money for charities close to our hearts.”

The trio will be raising money for local charities the Demelza Trust, Lewisham Hospital’s Lewi Appeal, which raises money for diagnostic equipment for cancer patients, and Gravesend’s Homeless Centre, the House of Mercy.

They are also running for the NSPCC, the Alzheimers Society, and AIDS and HIV charity Terrence Higgins Trust.

If you would like to support them, you can send cheques to: News Shopper, Mega House, Crest View Drive, Petts Wood, BR5 1BT.

Cheques should be made payable to either: House of Mercy, Demelza House Children’s Hospice, The Lewi Appeal, The Alzheimers Society, The Terrence Higgins Trust or NSPCC Registered Charity.