FIRST time London Marathon runner Caroline Chalk exceeded all expectation on Sunday by clocking a remarkable three hours 20 minutes 48 seconds over the 26.2-mile course to raise more than £1,335 for the charity Backcare.

Caroline, 35, who lives in Alton, started running two years ago as a personal challenge and discovered she really enjoyed it. She has competed in quite a few different events, the first being the 10-mile St Swithun’s Way run, organised by Treloars, and including two half marathons, and this was to be her marathon year.

A gardener and beauty therapist, Caroline has received a lot of support from friends, family and customers, all keen to supporter her is raising money for Backcare chosen, she said, “as my husband, Rob Chalk, has suffered with back pain for years and underwent spinal surgery last December, so I thought it was a fitting charity”.

Of her London Marathon time, she said: “I am really really pleased as I was aiming for three-and-a-half hours or less.”

And she added: “The atmosphere on the day was incredible with the support of the crowds being immeasurable. The weather was also perfect for marathon running – cold and sunny with a minor hail shower!

“The organisation of the event is beyond belief and the medal is beautiful, all in all an amazing experience and I’m so grateful for having had the chance to take part and raise funds for Backcare.”

To support Caroline, visit virginmoneygiving.com/carolinechalk.