A WHITEHAVEN duo have teamed up to race the Edinburgh half-marathon in aid of a charity close to their hearts: The Alzheimer’s Society.

Scarlett Todhunter and Anthony Weyer both have dealt with Alzheimer's disease in their families.

Scarlett is currently living with a family member who suffers from the cruel condition, whilst Anthony lost his grandmother who was suffering from it.

The pair decided they wanted to fundraise money that will go towards funding vital research into the disease.

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Scarlett said: "It has been a long road to my grandad's diagnosis and has been difficult for people to understand as he presents so well - he’s very active and is always laughing and joking with people.

"It’s not until you spend the day with him that you would realise that his brain no longer works the same way. It’s been heartbreaking to see someone that was once so independent, have that taken away from him as he continues to decline."

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The duo are preparing by training three times a week in the Lake District and are both starting from the very bottom, with no previous training.

Scarlett said: "My fitness levels are completely rubbish and although Anthony trains hard in the gym, it’s been a long time since he’s done any running!

"We’ve found that running has been great for us both mentally though and we’re enjoying the challenge. We’re nervous for the big day but we know in our hearts that as long as we finish it and manage to raise money for an incredible charity, we will have done ourselves proud."

The Edinburgh half marathon takes place at the end of May and Scarlett and Anthony have set up a JustGiving page for those who wish to donate.