A mobile hairdresser will be on the move in a big way when she runs her 11th marathon this Spring.

Charlie Spencer, 59, of Maiden Newton, will run the London Marathon in April.

After she has completed the epic distance through the capital for the charity of her choice - the Huntington’s Disease Association - the super fit mum, who turns 60 in June, will have racked up 288.2 miles worth of marathons.

The Huntington’s Disease Association is a charity very close to the heart of Charlie's daughter, whose best friend has recently discovered that she is carrying the gene for Huntington’s, following many years of her mother struggling with the disease.

Charlie said: "Each marathon is as special as the first. I’ve been overcome with the generosity and support I’ve been shown over the previous marathons that have raised so much money for so many charities."

More funds and awareness of Huntington's Disease will help to drive better care and outcomes for those affected by this devastating illness, Charlie says.

She added:  "Huntington’s disease is an inherited neurological disease which causes parts of the brain to stop working over time. Huntington’s causes changes with movement, learning, thinking and emotions. Once symptoms begin, the disease gradually progresses, so living with it means having to adapt to change, taking one day at a time.

"For those who carry the Huntington’s gene, symptoms usually start between the ages of 30-50 but can start much earlier or later. It gets gradually worse over time and is usually fatal after a period of up to 20 years.

"Huntington’s Disease Association are a lifeline for the HD community. Although there is currently no cure, research is happening all the time to try and find better treatments."

Charlie is holding a quiz night in Maiden Newton on Friday, March 10 to boost her London Marathon fundraising efforts.

It will take place at the Chalk and Cheese pub in the village. It starts at 7pm and people are advised to give the pub a call on 01300 257225 to book a table. 

Charlie has set herself a fundraising target of £2,500.

To sponsor her go to the website www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Charlie-Spencer6