A SLIMMER will be putting her new- found love of fitness to good use when she tackles the London Marathon to help fund research into cancer.

Claire Wier, of Kidderminster, will be putting her best feet forward on Sunday to raise cash for Cancer Research UK, after taking up running eight years ago.

The 44-year-old, who lost 4st 7lbs with Slimming World after her weight rocketed to 15st 7lbs, has taken part in half- marathons and sprint triathlons but Sunday’s event is set to be her biggest challenge yet.

The Slimming World consultant will be joining the weight-loss group’s marathon team as it takes on its 34th London Marathon.

“As Slimming World is supporting Cancer Research UK this year I really wanted it to be the year that I ran the Virgin London Marathon,” said Mrs Weir, who works as a dispensing optician.

“ The charity helps to fight a cause close to my heart and raising money through Slimming World is a great way to give something back.

“I have a few friends who have had a really tough time battling cancer – they never complain and are a true inspiration to me.

“ I take one of my friends to chemotherapy each week - everyone is so positive and it is an incredibly inspirational experience.

“I am most looking forward to the sense of achievement and pride when I finish. I can’t wait for the atmosphere on race day and knowing that all the pain is worth it.”

She added: “I felt really unhealthy, uncomfortable and unhappy before I first joined Slimming World.”

Mrs Weir will be one of a team of 11. People can sponsor the team at justgiving.com/slimmingworld2014