On Saturday Isla Widdowson ran a half marathon on behalf of the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal.

Being only 11 years old Isla hadn’t run such a long distance before but felt that to ask for donations for charity she should push herself as a one-off.

The location of the Poppy Run was Alton Water where almost 2 laps would meet the required 21.1km distance. With calm weather, Dad as pacer and Mum & Brother encouraging on bikes from behind, Isla passed through the first 17km with ease. But then the inevitable wall was met and the final few kilometres were the hardest running Isla has faced. Job done in 2hr 4min.

As well as raising £641 for the appeal Isla was also able to put this towards her Bronze Values award at school.

Isla is now having a break to recover fully.

Thanks for the messages of support along the way from the Harriers.

Dan Widdowson