After her partner survived eight mini-strokes, a Dereham woman has decided to tackle a major challenge to raise money for a charity that saves lives.

Dereham Times: Rebecca Hardy with her other marathon medals. Picture: Rebecca Hardy.Rebecca Hardy with her other marathon medals. Picture: Rebecca Hardy. (Image: Rebecca Hardy.)

Becky Hardy, 38, will be taking on the Virgin Money London Marathon for the Stroke Association on April 22 of this year,

Ms Hardy will be running to support the charity which researches strokes, after her partner Peter suffered eight last August.

The symptoms of mini-strokes (also known as a transient ischaemic attack, or TIA), last less than 24 hours, but can still adversely affect people's lives and are a warning sign for possible major stroke.

Ms Hardy said: 'When I walked through the door I just knew something wasn't right. Peter was slurring his words, his mouth had dropped on one side, and when he walked towards me it looked like he was falling to one side. I quickly got help and Peter was admitted to hospital.

'When we found out that Peter had had eight mini-strokes we were completely shocked, he had no idea. Thankfully he's made a really good recovery. Since the strokes, Peter has quit smoking and regularly exercises, it's great to have him join me on my training runs!'

She added: 'Training is going well. I actually really enjoy running, I find it therapeutic at times. I know I'll feel really proud when I get to the finish line at the marathon.'

Emma Evans at the Stroke Association, said: 'Mini-stroke is often referred to as a 'warning stroke,' a sign that people should seek emergency medical treatment to prevent a full stroke. Strokes can happen to anyone, at any age, at any time and they turn lives upside down. It's the fourth biggest killer in the in the UK and a leading cause of disability.

'We're thrilled Becky is taking on this challenge to raise vital funds for the Stroke Association and we're looking forward to cheering her on as she makes her way through London. Around 1.2 million people in the UK are living with the devastating impact of stroke. With the support of people like Becky we can help more stroke survivors and their families rebuild their lives.'

To sponsor Becky, visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/becky186.