A TEENAGER is putting on her running shoes to raise £2,500 for a charity which helps her autistic brother.

Georgina Saunders, 18, is in serious training after signing up to this year’s London marathon.

The former Billericay School pupil was inspired to undertake the challenge by her 14-year-old brother, Albert, who has autism. She is hoping to raise £2,500 for the National Autistic Society.

Georgina, who lives in Martindale Avenue, Basildon, said: “I’ve always had my heart set on running a London marathon, and I saw no better reason than to run for a charity that means so much to me and my family.

“As a big sister, I often worry about how Albert will be in the future.

“I hope my run can help raise awareness of autism so people understand he isn’t naughty, it’s the fact he has autism.”

The keen runner said her training was going well, despite setbacks including a few injuries and an operation to remove her tonsils. Georgina is confident she will manage the 26.2-mile course. She said: “I am now back on track and raring to go.”

Ella Moffat, events fundraising manager for the society, said: “The marathon will attract a crowd of 500,000, the same number of people who are affected by autism in the UK.

“Autism is much more common than most people think. That’s why we are so thankful to our runners whose dedication is helping to raise awareness of this lifelong and disabling condition.” Visit www.justgiving.com/foralbert