ROOKIE runners from Selkirk are set to tackle their first half marathon next week for two worthy local causes.

Alan Skeldon, Louise Laidlaw and Ann Ferrie are hoping to go further than any of them have ever gone before on the streets of Glasgow.

The members of the Galavanters club are raising money for the Macmillan Cancer Centre at Borders General Hospital as well as the cancer complimentary therapy charity, The Lavender Touch.

Alan told us: “We only took up running last year, but the three of us have been training hard over the last few months and will give the run 100 per cent to reach the finishing line.

“Every penny we can raise will allow the Macmillan Centre to carry on with their fantastic work and allow them to upgrade their facilities, and to also help The Lavender Touch continue with all the amazing work they do.”

Around 15,000 athletes will take to the streets of Glasgow on Sunday, October 1 for the Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run.

The 13.1 miles course starts in George Square and takes in Kingston Bridge and the Clyde Arc as well as many of the city’s landmarks.

Arlene Botha, run leader at Galavanters, is delighted with the Selkirk trio’s progress as they prepare for the half marathon.

She said: “I’m so proud of these three and how far they've come with their running.

“Alan and Louise only started running last year when they joined the beginners group.

“It just shows what 30 seconds of jogging can become.

“They are raising money for two fantastic local charities.”

To donate to Alan, Louise and Ann’s fundraising challenge go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/alan-skeldon2