AN EXMOUTH woman is preparing herself both mentally and physically ahead of competing in the Belfast Marathon.

N 2804 Exmouthrunner 266 gb

AN EXMOUTH woman is preparing herself both mentally and physically ahead of competing in the Belfast Marathon.

Julie McCracken, of Capel Lane, Exmouth, will take part in the long run this Bank Holiday Monday hoping to raise money for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust.

The 45-year-old had three cousins, Cheryl, Lee and Kerry Scaum, who all died having suffered from the disease.

Focusing on the event, Julie said: "It will be my first marathon. There is a mixture of both fear and excitement going through my head at the moment as I prepare.

"It has been a struggle getting ready for the race because I was unwell after Christmas."

Julie, who trains with the Women's Running Network, said she had previously competed in a number of half marathons but never a full course.

"I'm hoping that it's not going to be too hot a day. I've raised about �600 in sponsorship so far but hopefully I can raise a lot more," she explained.

Cystic Fibrosis is a hereditary disease affecting the glands of the lungs, liver, pancreas and intestines.

Julie said that there was a lot of public awareness raised to cystic fibrosis after Prime Minister Gordon Brown's son, Fraser, had the condition.

"Treatments for the condition have advanced particularly with stem cell research. It is, however, a pretty awful disease which also affects the digestive system," added Julie.

"I'm confident that I can complete the run to the finish, but most importantly, I'm hoping to enjoy the day.

If you would like to support Julie, sponsorship can be made by visiting the following website address: www.justgiving.com/juliemccracken

ENDS