A KIDDERMINSTER woman has presented a cheque for £4,200 to Cancer Research UK.

Claire Wier, 45, who is a Slimming World consultant, raised the funds by running the London Marathon and collecting sponsorship pledges from friends and family.

She said: “It just felt amazing to raise that figure. It was a phenomenal amount and I never dreamt I would raise that much.

“I have been overwhelmed with the support I had from group members, family and friends.

“Cancer Research UK is very personal for me because two of my close friends are sufferers so I wanted to do my bit.”

Mrs Wier, who lost 4st 7lbs after her weight rocketed to 15st 7lbs, took up running eight years ago and she is now encouraging Slimming World members to follow in her footsteps.

Several women from her group, which is held at Franche Community Primary School on Tuesday evenings, took part in the five-kilometre Kemp Hospice midnight walk while one member is training for her first half-marathon in October.

Mrs Wier said: “The women have, collectively, lost an amazing amount of weight, which has enabled them to take part in physical activities to raise money for some worthwhile causes - I am very proud.

“My group truly are the kindest, most determined, inspirational and amazing bunch of people.”