A CHIPPING Campden runner will be spreading the word about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) as she takes part in the London Marathon.

Emily Clarke, 18, will be raising vital funds for the YoungMinds charity as she pounds the 26.2 miles around the capital on Sunday, April 24.

She said: “I have spent a very lonely 17 years living with OCD. Now I want to help others, of all ages and walks of life, understand how it affects everyday people.

“YoungMinds supports sufferers of mental health problems, as well as educating everyone about illnesses such as OCD.

“I am running for everyone that has had to face the hurdles of life, in hope that with time, funding and support those hurdles can become far smaller. Every step is in honour and respect of the charity, as well as the individuals that have suffered and still are. So please donate and sponsor.”

YoungMinds is the UK’s leading charity committed to improving the emotional wellbeing and mental health of young people. It works with young people to campaign for better mental health services, and runs a parents’ helpline that supports more than 10,000 people every year.

Sarah Brennan, chief executive of YoungMinds, said: “YoungMinds can’t thank Emily enough for all her efforts in training for the marathon, fundraising, and of course running on the big day.

“It’s a huge undertaking; the money raised will help us to continue our vital work improving the emotional wellbeing and mental health of children and young people.”

If you would like to support Emily, you can do so here: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/EmilyClarke18