Fiona Smith, 38, will pound the streets of the English capital on Sunday, April 13, to raise money for the Miscarriage Association, which provided her with support following her bereavements.

Fiona, of St Aidan Crescent, Banchory, said: "This is my first - and probably my last - marathon. Recently, I lost three stones in weight and felt I needed something else to aim for. My husband Andrew's done two London Marathons and I just felt this was the right time."

"I applied to run for the charity as I felt I wanted to run for something that meant a lot to me. I have had two miscarriages and wanted to give something back to the Miscarriage Association for the tremendous help and support they gave me."

The Miscarriage Association is a national charity offering support and information to those affected by the loss of a baby in pregnancy.

Fiona began training for London in September 2007 and is now up to 18 miles.

"This weekend could be my 20-22 mile run," said Fiona, a senior clerical assistant at Banchory Community Learning Centre, Banchory Academy."

"I have been running along the railway line towards the Milton, which is four miles, so I do that a few times. I am really enjoying it. It's something I thought I'd never ever do. I've got two boys, so it's a good time to go out and have a bit of 'me' time and relax!"

Fiona, who has two children - Connor, seven, and Blair, 21 months - now weighs 10 stone, after losing three stone between February and August 2007.

"I've always been a member of a gym but this is probably the most exercise I've done and I'm getting really into it," she said. "Andrew did it last year in around five hours and is jealous I'm doing it this year, but I'll be happy just to cross the line! I'm aiming for probably around five hours and would like to raise at least £1,300."

To make a donation towards Fiona's fundraising, visit www.justgiving.com/fionasmith1