FITNESS and Ledbury folks seem to go together, given that six of them are committed to tackling a marathon this year, and all for charity.

Even more remarkable, if not surprising, all six are members of the Ledbury and District Harriers.

And the challenge starts this Sunday, with the London Marathon, when four Harriers will be pounding the streets of the capital.

A spokesman said: "This year six members of Ledbury and District Harriers are committed to tackling the 26.2 miles that makes the marathon. Firstly Barry Thompson, Emma Jane Shail, Holly Gourley and Catherine Every will tackle the iconic London marathon.

"Emma runs for Action on Addiction a charity that aims to free people from addiction; if you want to support Emma this can be done at https://ukvirginmoneygiving.com/EmmaGummery All support for Emma welcomed in what is intended be her last marathon, so her customary pint of cider at the end of a race would be welcome if she was not showing her support doubly by not drinking for 2019!

"Catherine this year secured the club’s ballet place to run her first London marathon and has been seen around town and further afield clocking up the miles for her challenge. Barry and Holly have both run qualifying times for a place under the good for age entry to the London marathon, so will be looking to equal or improve on personal bests. Holly also runs for the Midlands Air Ambulance and can be supported at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/hollygourley where she has currently raised over £1000 for this vital charity."

The spokesman added: "David Elks Looks towards the more local challenge of Hereford Marathon in the middle of May which with its hilly first half makes for a tough challenge for his second attempt of the Marathon. Finally, Chris Grubb will run the Newport marathon, a fast flat local course which rises in popularity for its quick times and supportive crowd.

"Chris looks for a target of sub 2.45, which should be achievable now he starts the Marathon not having done the swim and bike ride of a full Ironman. Having completed Tenby last year in 12:12:51 with a run of 4:19:30 he hopes the lack of hills and seven and a half hours exercise before will make this goal achievable."