A DURSLEY mother plans to run the London Marathon to raise money for charity.

Julie Froggatt, of Kingshill Road, is to take part in aid of children's charity Whizz-Kidz.

She said: "I am blessed with two extremely healthy, active and sporty children and am hoping to make a difference to the lives of other children less fortunate."

The charity's aim is to provide disabled children with independent mobility through customised equipment not available on the NHS.

Independent mobility means children can go out and play with friends and attend main stream schools and colleges.

Mrs Froggatt said: "This dramatically improves their self-esteem, allows them to participate in those activities able-bodied children take for granted, often simply allows them to experience the joy of childhood play, and means they can grow into confident adults."

Mrs Froggatt nearly pulled out of the marathon in light of the recent tsunami disaster.

She explained: "I fully understand that this is a difficult time for all those involved in fundraising in the light of the recent tsunami disaster.

"The personal resources of many individuals are stretched due to this. With this in mind, I did actually withdraw from my charity marathon place earlier last week but later, after much discussion, emotions and tears on my part, was then encouraged and motivated by Whizz-Kidz to stay with their team and simply raise whatever I can."

Mrs Froggatt is also selling her children's old computer games on ebay and is giving all the money to the charity. She will also be organising a number of other events, with proceeds split between the tsunami disaster fund and Whizz-kidz.

Anybody who wishes to find out more about the charity or to make a donation can do so on www.justgiving.com/juliesmarathon or send a cheque made payable to Whizz-kidz to Westfield House, 38 Kingshill Road, Dursley, Gloucestershire GL11