A Mossley runner has completed her first marathon and raised more than £2,600 for Emmaus.

Jennifer Gregory, aged 35 and from Mossley, took part in the London Marathon on Sunday 28 April and completed the course in an impressive time of 4 hours 22 minutes. Jennifer, a member of the Greenfield Greyhounds Running Club, applied to take part for Emmaus because of her own experience of the charity.

Jennifer commented: “It was an honour to run for a charity that is so close to my heart. Emmaus is special in Mossley and throughout the UK to the people who visit, the staff and the companions. The support I’ve been getting over the months from the community has taken the edge off the gruelling training plan. I ran through some awful weather but I’ve actually been so moved by everyone’s kind words.

“The crowds on the day were out of this world, as you’d expect on the world’s most famous race, and the conditions were perfect which meant I enjoyed every bit of it. To run with other supporters of Emmaus was also pretty special. The whole experience for me has been amazing and I’ve even inspired my husband who’s entered the ballot for next year!”

Emmaus Mossley supports 26 formerly homeless people by providing them with a home and work in a community setting. The charity is one of 29 Emmaus communities across the UK, supporting more than 800 people who have experienced homelessness.

Paul, who is currently being supported by Emmaus Mossley, travelled to London to cheer Jennifer on.

Paul said: “It was good to go down and show our appreciation for what Jennifer has done in support of Emmaus Mossley. The London Marathon is a huge event and it was quite manic but we’re just very grateful for Jennifer’s kind support.”

Jennifer trained for months leading up to the marathon, building up her stamina and completed more than 400 miles. As part of Jennifer’s fundraising efforts she also organised a 5K fun run in Mossley with more than 50 people taking part.

Alison Hill, Director of Emmaus Mossley, said: “We are all extremely grateful that one of our regular supporters has been inspired to take on a huge fundraising challenge in support of our charity. Jennifer is a real inspiration to members of our Emmaus Mossley community and other supporters looking to go the extra mile to help people in need. Very well done and huge thanks to Jennifer, along with all the people who donated to her fundraiser.”

To find out more or support Emmaus Mossley head to www.emmaus.org.uk/mossley. If you would like to get involved or donate an item, please call 01457 838608 or visit the store at Longlands Mill, Queen Street, Mossley OL5 9AH.