Totton fundraisers for Tanya Harder, running the virtual London Marathon in a wedding dress

A WOMAN who has organised a string of fundraising events in Totton is running a virtual version of the London Marathon in a wedding dress.

Tanya Harder, who last year led the team organising the town’s carnival, decided to don the white gown for charity after concluding she was probably never going to get to wear one for real.

She said: “My partner of 14 years refuses to marry me. I saw a social media post by a lady saying she was going to wear one while running the marathon.

“I thought, ‘that’s a good idea’ as it means I get to wear one at last!

“I am offering businesses the chance to sponsor for me for which they get to have their logo on the train of the dress.”

Tanya (32) is running a 26.2-mile marathon over a period of 24 hours, in parallel with the London run, to raise money for the Rose Road Association.

The organisation offers help for over 300 children who are disabled, autistic or have complex health needs across Hampshire and surrounding counties.

It also offers respite care for families while also providing information and support for them.

Tanya, from Millbrook, hoped to complete the marathon on 23rd April within eight hours.

She said: “You can take as long as you like. I have injuries which mean I could not run the normal marathon but I am really looking forward to this challenge.

“I am actually going to start it backwards, by taking off from the finishing line and ending at the start, just for a change.”

The marathon is not her only fundraising venture. She has also organised a charity bingo night on 6th April at The Keys pub in Totton, a quiz night there on 1st June, and a drag queen evening on 3rd June at Calmore community centre.

She is also organising a party at the community centre on 5th August and in October a charity band event at the 6 Barrels in Totton.

To find out more visit www.facebook.com/Tanschallenge and to donate visit www.justgiving.com/page/tansmarathon23