An ambitious runner is taking on the Edinburgh Marathon later this month as part of a series of marathon runs.

Jill Smylie, 44 from Clarkston, has decided to run in four marathons in 2024, planning to take on courses in Paris, Valencia, Berlin, and notably, Edinburgh on Sunday, May 26.

She has chosen the challenge in a year filled with '4s' and to generate funding for the Stroke Association.

Glasgow Times:

Ms Smylie said: "I’ve run since I was a teenager, and absolutely love it.

"I also enjoy the challenge of completing a marathon.

"In fact, I successfully ran the Edinburgh Marathon in 2008 and 2023, and I’ve chosen Edinburgh again because I love the route and the atmosphere."

She has a personal connection to the cause she supports having lost her stepfather to a stroke.

This experience spurred her devotion to the association.

Discussing her choice to run for the charity, she stated: "I’ve seen the devastating impact of stroke.

"Quite a few of my family members have had strokes, including my stepdad, who died from his second stroke.

"This is why the work of the Stroke Association is important to me."

Product officer at the Stroke Association, Claire Pell, expressed the organisation's gratitude, as she said: "We are thrilled with Jill’s massive efforts in not only undertaking the Edinburgh Marathon but for three others too.

"It is a huge undertaking, and we are honoured she has chosen us as the charity to raise funds for."

To sponsor Ms Smylie's effort, visit https://events.stroke.org.uk/fundraisers/jillsmylie/berlin-marathon-2024.