A DROITWICH teenager had the honour of being the youngest runner in the London Marathon this year.

Helen Nutter turned 18, the minimum age required to compete in the challenge, on marathon day itself, April 17, and took part with her mum Christine, who was competing in her third London Marathon.

Mum and daughter were both running for WellChild, which supports all sick children, whatever their illness, raising funds for research, support for sick children and their families, and particularly for WellChild nurses, to enable sick children to be at home with their families rather than staying in hospital for long periods.

Mum Christine first ran for WellChild in 2007 as a thank you for the expert medical care Helen received as a child when she was diagnosed with a blood disorder - chronic ITP.

Christine said: “I am delighted that this year Helen joined me in running on her 18th birthday.

“She may not have enjoyed a champagne breakfast on her big day, or a night out on the town, but she did have a truly memorable day never to be forgotten.”

WellChild printed '18 Today' on Helen's running vest, and she ran with a 'Happy 18th Birthday' helium balloon attached to her. She was overwhelmed by the ‘Happy Birthday’ cheers from the crowd and for the kindness of the charity in presenting her with a birthday cake at the post-race reception.

Christine added: “We didn't actually run together as she is much faster than me - the advantage of youth. She finished in an amazing four hours 24 minutes and really enjoyed it.”

The mum and daughter team fundraised together and have raised £2,967 for WellChild.

They are still taking donations via www.justgiving.com/Helen-Nutter or www.justgiving.com/Christine-Nutter. For more details about WellChild, visit www.wellchild.org.uk.