WHEN Peebles mum Michelle Dodds signed up to run the Edinburgh Half Marathon, it was in memory of her friend who lost his battle to cancer last year.

But after receiving the devastating news that her mum Kim had breast cancer earlier this year, she is running for a charity close to her heart.

With the Edinburgh race cancelled due to the pandemic, the 37-year-old is determined to complete a half marathon in her hometown.

She’s now calling on the people of Peebles to come out to support her and friend Myles Langley, as they run 13.1 gruelling miles for Macmillan Cancer Support.

“It would be great to see that community spirit and it would mean the world to us if people came out to support us," said Michelle, who has run the Edinburgh Half Marathon three times.

She told the Peeblesshire News: “I knew the event in May would be postponed, but when I heard the September date was cancelled I was pretty gutted after all the training I had done in preparation for it.

“The reason I was doing this was in memory of our family friend John Angus, but since lockdown it’s even more important and meaningful."

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She explained: “My mum was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer, so all of a sudden it wasn’t just about John – it was about my mum and our gratitude to the work Macmillan do every day.”

After radiotherapy treatment and an operation, Michelle’s mum was given the all-clear.

“Supporting this charity is my own way to say how incredible thankful I am," said Michelle.

She says she’ll miss the buzz of the Edinburgh crowds who come out to cheer on runners, but hopes to see some supporters in Peebles.

The running duo will take off from the County Inn on Peebles High Street on Saturday, September 5 at 9am, heading along the bike path to Innerleithen and back.

Michelle’s two sons, Harry and Gregor, will be at the start/finish line along with her mum Kim.

“The support and encouragement from all of our family and friends has meant the world to both me and Myles and we can’t wait to complete the event and celebrate our efforts.”

And they have plenty of reason to celebrate after raising more than £1,000 for the charity so far.

If you would like to sponsor Michelle and Myles, there is a sponsor form at the County Inn. Alternatively you can visit JustGiving here.