A NOVICE long-distance runner from York hopes her preparations for the Yorkshire Marathon will help inspire others who are taking part.

Freelance copy writer and nutrition adviser Angela Shepherd, 49, from Acomb is doing her first marathon in Manchester at the end of this month, followed by the York-based event in October.

She said she thought her experiences as a first-timer might provide some valuable insight for those who are tackling York as their first marathon and so far has been blogging about her efforts.

Mrs Shepherd, who is married to landscaper Steve, said: “I’m not a personal trainer or a coach and would never presume to tell someone how to run a marathon, but if beginners can learn a little from my Manchester Marathon journey I would love to help if I can.”

Mrs Shepherd said she began running relatively late in life at the age of 45.

She said: “I’ve always been fairly active, doing lots of walking and cycling, but was inspired to take up running when the first Jane Tomlinson Run For All 10K was launched in York in 2009. Once I’d done that I caught the running bug.

“I’ve since taken part in all four events and love them. I first took part in the Great North Run in 2010 and have done it three times. In 2011 I ran in aid of the Macmillan Unit at York Hospital, and in 2012 for Martin House Hospice. I have also taken part in the Leeds Half Marathon and the Leeds Abbey Dash.

“After last year’s Great North Run I thought I’d like to attempt a marathon to mark the year of my 50th birthday in September.

“I entered the Manchester Marathon last October, before the Yorkshire Marathon had been launched, and when that was announced I thought I couldn’t possibly miss out on the opportunity to run a marathon being held on my own doorstep, so I entered that too.

“My only ambition is to hopefully run all the way and cross the line smiling.”

The Press will be publishing some of Mrs Shepherd’s top tips and her blog at yorkpress.co.uk/marathon/blogs