TWO nurses will take on a 26-mile run on behalf of a small charity to raise cash for The Stanley Eye unit in Abergele.

Heulwen Haynes, 56, and Patricia Thomas, 58, who both work at the eye unit, will endure the gruelling London Marathon on April 22.

Heulwen, of Trefnant, and Patricia, of Rhos on Sea, will run for Eyesight - a charity set up to support the work of the unit.

The women met last year and quickly became good friends. Despite the cold weather, the mums have been training since Christmas.

Heulwen, who is married and has three-grown up children, said: "We are both of a certain age and wanted to raise as much money as we could for our brilliant charity.

"When the charity applied and got two charity places, I was asked if I would run for them. I had completed the marathon six years ago, running then to raise money for visually impaired children. I never thought I would have the chance to do it again.

"We have been training for the last four months, pounding the streets in all weathers. We have laughed and cried together and we will complete this huge challenge together.”

Patricia, who is married to Scott and has four children, added: “I have completed several half marathons, but never a full one. I actually entered into the ballot for the London marathon for the first time this year, so when asked if I would be interested in the London Marathon, I said yes - I was very interested.

"The London Marathon is something that I have watched for years. I have always thought that it must be amazing to take part in.

"Heulwen and I did our first run together, which was the Wrexham Village Bakery Half Marathon, in February this year. We did an 18-mile run a few weeks back and my furthest ever run to date, which was 20 miles, on Good Friday this year.

"Completing the 20 miles has been a huge confidence boost for both of us. We are excited about being given the chance to raise funds for the Eyesight charity and being part of this event.”

Anyone wishing to donate, can visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/PatriciaandHeulwen or drop in a donation at the reception at Abergele Eye Unit.