An aunt and niece who live in St Albans will be taking this year’s London Marathon in their stride to support the life saving work of St John Ambulance.

Louise Gray, 45, and Lauren Joiner, 22, will run the 26.2 mile course on Sunday, April 13 on behalf of the first aid charity.

Miss Gray of Verulam Road said her father had been helped by St John Ambulance volunteers five years ago and, although he did not survive, she and Miss Joiner were both keen to support the charity.

Miss Joiner of Becketts Avenue has also attended a first aid course run by St John Ambulance in 2013 and is now a nominated workplace first aider

Miss Gray said: "I wanted to run for St John Ambulance because they are so important. They were so quick and helpful when looking after my dad and living on a main road and seeing ambulances go past every evening motivated me to raise money for them."

This year’s London Marathon is the first marathon either Miss Gray and Miss Joiner will have run, although Miss Gray has previously competed in a half-marathon and a triathlon.

Talking of the race itself, Miss Gray said: "It'll be a great bonding experience to run with Lauren and we're both really looking forward to the race.

"I'm finding the build-up a bit harder and am nervous about the race day but training together has really pushed me."

Miss Joiner added: 'I'm quite nervous too, but very excited all the same. We ran 22 miles together in training a few days ago so we know we can do the distance and cross the finishing line.

"The atmosphere on the day will be excellent and we're hoping that the crowd will give us a boost."

To make a donation visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/LouiseGray1 and uk.virginmoneygiving.com/LaurenJoiner.