The busy office manager of a Hitchin youth charity has succeeded in her challenge to raise funds to help the young people of the town after setting herself the target of completing a marathon in her 50th year!

The Comet: Amanda MaylinAmanda Maylin (Image: Archant)

Hitchin youth charity Phase’s busy office manager Amanda Maylin Sporty Amanda decided to run the full distance of 26.2 miles to help raise funds for Phase – a charity that supports and encourages wellbeing in young people.

Amanda successfully completed Sunday’s Edinburgh Marathon in an impressive 4 hours 41 minutes, to raise nearly £2,000 and counting for the much-loved charity.

She told the Comet: “I’m really pleased to have completed my first ever marathon, it was very tough, especially the last six miles.

“But it was all for a fantastic organisation in Phase – I’m very grateful for all the support and sponsorship people have given me,

“This money will make a huge difference to the support Phase give to young people across Hitchin.”

Amanda decided to take on the challenge after turning 50 and trained hard since January in all weathers covering more than 350 miles to improve her fitness.

But there is another reason why brave Amanda took up the challenge of running a marathon. She explains: “I know running helps maintain my mental health. “Having suffered from depression since I was a young adult, I understand finding ways to keep a healthy body and mind are really important.

“This has been my way – and it benefits Phase who also support and encourage wellbeing in adults it comes into contact with – whether it be parents, teachers, volunteers or staff members.”

It’s not too late to sponsor the inspirational Amanda and aid Phase to help many more people find their own ways to sustain good mental health.

To donate visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/AmandaMaylin or call 01462 422940.