A WOMEN from Whitchurch has raised more than £3,000 to help raise funds to support older people living in financial hardship.

Clare Collins, 47, from Whitchurch, took part in the London Marathon on Sunday, April 23, to raise funds for Independent Age, a national charity that supports older people living in financial hardship. 

She completed the 26.2-mile course in three hours 57 minutes and so far has raised £3,400 for the charity.

Clare is one of a team of 10, hoping to raise £28,400 for Independent Age at this year’s marathon.

READ MORE: Whitchurch: Clare Collins to run first London Marathon

A beaming Clare said the run “couldn’t have gone any better".

Independent Age is a national charity that provides a strong campaigning voice, and free and impartial advice on the issues that matter to people over 65 and their families, including money and benefits. 

Clare, a sales manager at Samsung, previously said: “I’m fundraising for Independent Age because their mission resonates so strongly with me. Like many people my age, my parents are older. After years of being self-sufficient, they suddenly needed residential care. Whilst they are undoubtedly well looked after now, have plenty of company, and are safe, it has been a heartbreaking and very costly transition for all of us. I wish we were aware of Independent Age as its useful advice would have really helped during this challenging period. I want older people and their families to have access to a charity that has their best wishes at heart.”  

SEE ALSO: Hampshire farm shop Cobbs at Manydown to close its doors and relocate

Stuart Rogers, acting chief executive of Independent Age, said:  “I think I speak for the whole charity when I say congratulations to Clare for completing the London Marathon and thank you for choosing to support Independent Age. We admire your commitment to supporting people in later life.  

“With 2.1 million older people already living in poverty and millions more facing financial hardship due to the increased costs of living, our work to ensure we all have the opportunity to live well with dignity, choice and purpose as we age has never been more important.  We couldn’t do this without volunteers and fundraisers like Clare. Many thanks again and I hope you have a well-deserved rest after your efforts.”