CHEPSTOW’S Chloe Peel crossed the finish line in her first ever marathon in London on Sunday as she raised money for Diabetes UK.

The 21-year-old finished the race in four hours and 35 minutes, a great payoff after three months of hard training.

After crossing the line, she said: “I am so proud to have completed my first ever marathon and would like to thank everyone who has donated to my fundraising or helped me raise awareness of diabetes.

“I had a great day, particularly as the atmosphere is so amazing with all the crowds and my family cheering me on. I have to admit the last three miles were a massive struggle though, but I made it through and the feeling of crossing the finish is something I will never forget.

“I did this for my dad, because he has Type 1 diabetes and I know how serious the condition is. I’m really pleased to have been able to raise awareness of the condition and help support other people living with it by running the London Marathon.”

So far Chloe has raised over £430 for Diabetes UK but hopes further donations might help her to raise even more, to donate visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Chloe-Peel.