Congratulations to 33 year old, Rachel Booth who completed this year’s London Marathon in 5 hours and one minute, running in memory of her late mother, Jane Booth who was killed in a riding accident in September 2004, and has so far raised over £1,000.

“It was really tough as it was baking hot, but the crowds were amazing. I ran with a hobby horse to symbolise the MDIRF as well as wearing a T-shirt with the charity’s logo on it. Lots of people made comments about my horse!,” reports Rachel.

“The reason I ran for the MDIRF was that I was present at my mother’s accident and it’s taken a long time for my family and me to come to terms with life without her. Losing my mum completely shattered our lives. She taught me to ride at the age of 6 when my brother and me were lucky enough to get our 1st pony – a grey Welsh Mountain called Snoopy. Despite everything that’s happened, riding remains an important part of my life – keeping me sane! My mum would have wanted me to carry on riding, as it meant the same to her, it was her way of life, her passion. She always said you have to get straight back on when you fall off,” she continued.

Rachel originally came from Northumberland and is happily married and now living in Hampshire. Formerly a Firefighter, she is now a Secondary School Maths Teacher.

“Running the Marathon is a way I felt I could help others who have been involved in or affected by a riding accident. I also organised a non-uniform day at our school” adds Rachel.

If you’re quick you can still recognise Rachel’s efforts at www.justgiving.com/rachsrun