Marathon runner's story

Rebecca Williams ran the Virgin London Marathon 2010 to raise money for Great Ayton Animal Centre and raised an impressive £1150.

Rebecca is an active member of our staff to say the least!

We catch up with her a few days after the marathon to find out how it all went.

Congratulations on finishing the marathon. How are you feeling?

On Monday I had trouble getting out of bed, but I am feeling alright today and I’m going to the gym tonight.

This isn’t your first marathon is it?

No, I ran it last year and am hoping to again next year.  I have also taken part in the Great North run for the last few years, raising money for the RSPCA, it’s more of an achievable distance!

What first got you into running?

I have done it for years, just to keep fit really. I have a chronic joint condition (hypermobility syndrome) so I need to be as fit and healthy as I can be to keep my joints going.

I have my three dogs that run with me - Holly, Harry and Charlie. They are all rescue dogs and make great company when I’m running.  They don’t run the longer distances with me though.

Did you run this last marathon to raise money for something specific?

Yes, Great Ayton Animal Centre recently had a new small animal shelter built and the idea was to raise money for equipment for the rabbits, ferrets and small furies that will be using it.

Do you have any fundraising plans for the future?

I am planning on going skydiving this summer.  It makes me feel sick when I think about it, much more so than running a marathon.  I’m sure afterwards I will feel really proud of myself though.

It’s great you are so dedicated!

Yes, well I think some people would say I am a little unhinged, but you’ve got to have a hobby!