A SLIMMER who shed over four stone plucked up the courage to take part in the Carlisle Half Marathon.

Sara Dawson, from Bolton Low Houses decided to take part after joining her local running club last year.

She explained: "I decided to take part because I started the couch to 5k with Wigton Road Runner last September and after finishing that the group continued to run with the aim of completing a 10k or half marathon.

"So I entered the Carlisle Half as it was a flat course and I thought if I kept my training up it would be manageable.

"The last and only other time I’d run a half marathon was in 1984 when I was 11 and ran the Cumbrian Run.

Sara started Slimming World in May 2018 after attending a group in Houghton, a year later she moved to a Wigton group run by Denise Broughton.

"I wanted to get my wedding ring and engagement ring back on because they didn't fit," added Sara.

"I wanted to be a better example for my three children, Edward, Robert and Mariella.

"And I wanted to be around for my children, being an older mum I felt if I didn’t sort myself out then I’d run the risk of developing diabetes and other weight related conditions."

Sara has lost 4stone 10lb and reached her target weight just before Christmas.

She's had tricky weeks but the support she has received from her Slimming World group has kept her going week on week.

Sara continued: "I love running as it gives me time to focus on something different other than children and work. It helps clear my head

"Taking part in the Carlisle Half, I was very nervous before but as soon as I started I relaxed.

"I've had a lot support in order to train for it.

"It was wonderful seeing my family waiting for me and cheering me on at the finish and I was relieved that I hadn't let anyone down as I was running for charity."

After being encouraged to raise money, Sara chose Cancer Research UK as her charity as it has touched so many people's lives.

She ran in memory of her mother-in-law Olive Dawson and godmother Dorothy Thorburn.

"I've been overwhelmed by everyone's support and generosity and hope to reach my target of £400," said Sara

"Going forward my aim is to keep healthy in body and mind and to run as much as I can observing social distancing."