A hospice nurse put her hand up for a marathon challenge just a few weeks after being employed.

As one of the latest additions to the team at Kirkwood Hospice, you could be forgiven for thinking Steph Bailey might still be trying to find her feet.

The newly qualified nurse had other ideas and is already lacing up her running shoes for this weekend’s London Marathon.

Shortly after joining the Dalton based hospice, Steph, of Lindley, heard that Kirkwood had secured a place at the prestigious Virgin Money London Marathon.

As a keen distance runner and member of Meltham AC, she couldn’t resist applying.

Her decision to apply for the place, despite admitting to not being a “natural fundraiser”, came down to the care and dedication that she sees around her each and every day.

“Working at Kirkwood is a real privilege,” she said. “I work with an amazing team of people who are all committed to providing the best possible care to patients and their relatives.

“I see the immense difference that the care provided here makes to many people’s lives at very difficult times and so I felt I just had to apply.

“I was delighted to be chosen to represent the hospice on such a huge stage. Knowing that I am running at such an amazing event in aid of such a wonderful cause is a real honour.”

Steph has held a number of events to raise funds for the hospice in the run up to the London Marathon this Sunday and has been overwhelmed by the backing she has received.

She has already exceeded her initial target of £2,000 and hopes that the total will continue to rise.

She added: “I am extremely grateful for all the support I’ve received.

“We’ve raised over £3,000 so far, which is amazing. Hopefully that will continue to rise over the next few days.”

If you would like to support Steph in her fundraising efforts, you can donate online via her Virgin Money Giving page at: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/StephBailey1