LEANNE Probert won't be suffering from the loneliness of the long distance runner when she competes in her first ever marathon this Sunday because she'll have the bellowing encouragement of Abergavenny Mayor Sam Dodd to cheer her on and keep her company.

Leanne, who works alongside the Mayor in the town's NFU Mutual offices only started pounding the pavements a year ago when she joined the Abergavenny Road Runners, and this weekend she'll be lacing up her running shoes and joining over 18,000 people to compete in Wales' biggest road race - the Cardiff half marathon.

Leanne explained, "The Abergavenny Road Runners club only started about a year ago and 80 percent of us have never run in a marathon before but we'll all be giving it our best shot come Sunday."

Although Leanne couldn't persuade her friend Sam to run alongside her, the Mayor will be on hand to lend her vocal support, as Leanne goes hell for leather in the capital and attempts to raise as much money as possible for the Mayor's charity.

Leanne told the Chronicle, "Once I knew I wanted to compete in the marathon, I wasn't sure what charity to run for, and then I thought it would be a great idea to run for Sam's chosen charity - St Anne's Hospice."

The 35-year-old has been participating in a gruelling training schedule ahead of her dash around Cardiff but remains convinced that the aching limbs and sore feet will be well worth the achievement of crossing the finishing line.

"I'm really looking forward to Sunday," revealed Leanne, "So far I've raised over £120 for Sam's charity and hope to raise a lot more."

You can sponsor Leanne by picking up a form from the NFU Mutual offices in Abergavenny's Lion Street.

For those of you keen to experience the health benefits and camaraderie that running offers, the Abergavenny Road Runners club are always on the lookout for new recruits to the cause. For further details contact Mike James of MJ Health and Fitness on 07595 941807.