A MOTHER is gearing up for one of the most famous and gruelling races in the world in memory of her best friend’s daughter.

Dominique Edwards, 32, of Malvern, will be tackling the Virgin Money London Marathon on Sunday (April 26) in aid of Acorns Children’s Hospice - the charity which provided vital support and care for Ali Pitt-Hughes’ daughter Effie.

Mrs Edwards, a teacher at Pershore High School, said: “This is a charity close to my heart.

“Ali lost her beautiful daughter Effie and I will be running the London Marathon in her memory, just a week after what would have been her 5th birthday.

“I’ve done various runs before but doing the London Marathon has always been on my list. It’ll be a tough race but the fact I’m doing it for such a good cause will spur me on.”

Mrs Edwards met her best friend Ms Pitt-Hughes, 39, whilst studying A-levels at Worcester College of Technology 14 years ago. The pair had their eldest children around the same time and hit it off straight away.

In 2010 Ms Pitt-Hughes' baby daughter Effie was diagnosed with Edward’s Syndrome, a rare genetic condition, and sadly died aged just four months. Acorns was on hand to provide specialist medical care for Effie and support for her family.

Ms Pitt-Hughes added: “I don’t know how I would have got through my situation without the care and support of Acorns.

“They were a lifeline when we needed them most, providing everything we needed to cope - from emotional support to everyday practical advice.

“It was such a difficult time but Acorns community worker Jan helped me to accept my feelings and know that it was ok to feel the way I did. She provided a non-judgmental, sympathetic ear. I knew I could speak my mind and admit my inner-most emotions and feel safe doing so.

“Acorns is a miraculous organisation that really made me feel part of their family. Without my mum, Acorns and Dominique, I don’t know where I’d be.”

The mother added her fundraising friend is “so altruistic and selfless” for taking on the marathon challenge.

To sponsor Mrs Edwards’ run visit justgiving.com/Dominique-Edwards2 or to find out more about the charity’s work visit acorns.org.uk