Reporter Paula Roberts is running her first half marathon at the first Bournemouth Marathon Festival in October.

She is being trained by Bournemouth’s Fitness First personal trainer Karen Morison and raising funds for the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation.

The JTYAF was set up in memory of the young Royal Marine who died in combat in Southern Afghanistan in 2008.

Here are some words from John’s mother Linda, who is secretary of the JTYAF.

"We're delighted to have 23 runners who will be running for the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation on the 5th and 6th October. We have seven entries in the marathon, one of which is John's brother Ian, who will be running his first marathon for the JTYAF.

“There are also nine half marathon entries which includes Alex Wills, head of Ferndown Upper School and one of the trustees.

“I have sadly been forced to withdraw from the half marathon because of injury but I’m hoping to be fit enough to take part in the 5K with four other JTYAF runners. We also have two entries in the 10K.

“We are hoping that this great new event for Bournemouth will be one of our most successful fundraisers of the year and we would love to hear from anyone wanting to join the team. We can offer a fundraising pack to help get your fundraising started, free training sessions for all abilities and JTYAF support to cheer you on along the way."