A Renfrewshire mum is taking on the London Marathon to raise funds for the Erskine veterans charity in honour of her Royal Navy-serving son.

Tracey Reddy, from Paisley, will race around the capital and zip past many of the city's iconic landmarks, including the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.

However, the 51-year-old insists her "eyes will be firmly on the finish line" as she puts in the miles for her submariner son James, who attended St Andrew’s Academy, and all others who serve for their country.

An experienced runner, Tracey challenged herself to a run a marathon for every year of her 40s. 

Her plans were interrupted by the pandemic but she didn't use it as an excuse and is now planning to finish in style.

Tracey said: "My son serves in the Navy as well as a few close friends, so supporting Veterans is a cause close to my heart. I regard it as an honour to run for the veterans.

"This is the first time I will have raised funds for Erskine and as its my last marathon I am going to make it count."

The generosity of fundraisers such as Tracey raises thousands for the Erskine every year and enables them to support over 1,000 veterans.

Erskine's network includes three care homes and a Veterans Village in Bishopton, which includes 44 Veterans Cottages, five assisted living apartments and 24 transitiional supported accommodation apartments, supporting veterans of all ages.

Ian Cumming MBE, Erskine's chief executive, said: "By taking part in the London Marathon for Erskine, Tracey and others like her will be helping to provide the high standard of care our veterans so richly deserve. 

"Running is the perfect opportunity to get outdoors and support our nation's veterans through fitness and fun."

To fundraise on behalf of Erskine, call 0141 814 4620 or send an email to Erskine community fundraiser Sharon Meiklejohn at sharon.meiklejohn@erskine.org.uk.