By Safira Ali

Last updated 16:29, Monday, 22 September 2008

A MARYPORT woman will be running in the Great North Run next month to raise awareness of diabetes.

Great North Runner: Lynsey Millican of Maryport gets ready for a practice run

Lynsey Millican, 25, of Grasslot, took up running last summer and wants to run for Diabetes UK because both her father Garry and cousin Cherie Glaister have the condition.

It is the first time she will take part in the Great North Run.

Lynsey will be running alongside her aunt Sandra Rickerby, and the pair have been keeping up with a strict training regime in preparation for the demanding 13-mile race on October 5.

She said: “I hope that by taking part in the Great North Run I can raise awareness of diabetes and the work of Diabetes UK. I will have family in mind during the run which will be good motivation for me.

“I had a chest infection a few weeks ago so had to put my training on hold then. But I have taken it up again and do a couple of spinning and circuit classes at Netherhall to build stamina. We go out running on the road or anywhere to get a change of scenery.

“Sandra and I will keep each other going during the race. I'm really looking forward to the run, and the fact that we are able to raise money for a fantastic cause at the same time is a real bonus.”

Jeff Breen, regional fundraising manager for Diabetes UK, is hoping that other Great North Run participants will consider running for Diabetes UK

“The Great North Run is the world’s largest half marathon and an iconic event,” he said. “Runners who already have a place in the race can still choose to run on behalf of Diabetes UK and help support the millions of people who are affected by diabetes.”

Anyone interested in running for Diabetes UK can contact Jeff on 01325 488606 or email Jeff.Breen@diabetes.org.uk.

To help Lynsey with her fundraising call her on 01900 815117 after 5pm.

SAli@cngroup.co.uk