BLANKET Hall manager Eleanor Martin will be throwing herself headfirst into a new challenge as she prepares to take on the London Marathon next month.

The 30-year-old Witney businesswoman is competing in the race on Sunday, April 24, in support of The Countryside Alliance Foundation (TCAF).

Ms Martin, who lives in Radcott, Bampton, and manages Witney Blanket Hall as part of her family business Cotswold Woollen Weavers, is a keen supporter of country activities.

She often hunts with the Vale of White Horse, enjoys clay pigeon shooting and has been involved in all aspects of running point-to-points.

She said: "I am really looking forward to the challenge of running the London Marathon.

"I am passionate about the countryside and I think TCAF does a great job of providing opportunities and making it accessible for everyone.

"I have been lucky enough to have had a wonderful upbringing in our beautiful countryside and have been privileged to participate in many activities.

"I think a lot of people in my position are unaware of how many people do not have access or are unsure how to gain access to our wonderful surroundings.

"I am a great believer in outdoor learning, especially for those who thrive on a more hands-on learning experience, and that’s what TCAF offers."

The Countryside Alliance Foundation runs three charities – Fishing 4 Schools and Falconry For Schools, which introduce children to the outside world through short courses, and Casting for Recovery, an organisation that offers healing fishing retreats for women who have breast cancer or who are recovering from it.

Visit justgiving.com/EJMartin to support Eleanor Martin.