A WOMAN who slipped a disc in her back just two months ago will persevere with the Newport Half Marathon on Sunday in aid of a hospice.

Natalie Halket, 21, has been warned by her physiotherapist to take it easy running the 13.1-mile course, as she aims to raise £250 for St David's Hospice Care.

"It is only this past month that I've been able to train," said Miss Halket, who is running in memory of her godmother's husband Lloyd Hope, who was looked after by a hospice in the West Midlands.

"We chose St David's as our charity of the year here at work. I wanted it to be a hospice because I know what they do, even though it is not the same hospice."

Wessex Garages in Newport, where Miss Halket works, is planning a series of fundraising events throughout the year, including a coffee morning on St David's Day.

"I am the most competitive person ever but I'm not sure if I'll finish the run," she said.

"Lloyd was very competitive and if I get tired I think what would he be saying if he was standing next to me."

Staff from Wessex Garages will man water stations around the course on Sunday.

To donate to the cause, visit www.justgiving.com/NatalieWessex