Pair plan marathon to support friend with cancer
DCCFTwo friends of a woman who has an aggressive form of breast cancer are running a marathon distance along the Dorset coast - on the day of the London Marathon - in support of her and other cancer patients.
Jane Austin, 58, and Judith Baker, 57, plan to run the 26.2-mile distance from Lulworth to Portland Bill, in support of their friend Win Wood and to raise money for the Dorset Cancer Care Foundation (DCCF).
Coinciding with the start of the London Marathon on Sunday, they will leave from Dagger's Gate in West Lulworth at about 09:30 BST.
Ms Woods said seeing her friends taking on the challenge made her "very emotional".
The retired railway clerical officer had to undergo an operation just days after her 67th birthday.
It revealed that the cancer had spread to the lymph nodes in her right arm and a second operation was needed to remove all her lymph nodes.
Ms Austin said her friend had been "incredibly brave and positive" during the treatment.
"Judith and I decided we wanted to do something to show her how much we love and admire her," she added.
The pair have taken part of many sporting events over the years, including the London Marathon and the Channel Swimming Association's Fastest Female Relay.
Ms Baker said that although the marathon would be tough, "that's nothing compared to what Win and other people with cancer go through".
The duo have "jokingly" nicknamed themselves The Trotting Tits.
'Dear friends'
Ms Wood said was "thrilled" to learn about her friends' plans and suggested they fundraise for DCCF, which supports families with financial struggles because of cancer.
"It makes me very emotional to see what my dear friends are doing in my honour," she said.
"They are both extraordinary women, and I have no doubt they will conquer this marathon as they do everything else - with a great deal of personal strength and humour."
The pair have also raised more than £600 through an online crowdfunding campaign.
You can follow BBC Dorset on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.