Animal charity, the Retired Greyhound Trust, is set to benefit from the generosity of a father and daughter duo who are raising funds for them at this year’s London Marathon. Jim Reynolds (45) and daughter Donna (20), from Walthamstow, are currently training hard for the event which will be held on Sunday 18 April 2004.

As a professional greyhound trainer, Jim has a close association with the greyhound industry. Donna is a kennel girl and, having grown up surrounded by greyhounds, is a long-standing lover of the breed. The money that they raise will go towards the Trust’s work in finding homes for greyhounds that have retired from racing.

This is Donna’s first marathon but luckily her dad – a veteran of four marathons – has been able to give her lots of tips on how best to prepare for the race.

Jim Reynolds said, "In the past I have made the mistake of going all out for a fast time. However, I now think that the most important thing is to try to soak up the atmosphere and get yourself round the course in one piece! The London Marathon is particularly special in terms of atmosphere – the support from the crowd really spurs you on."

Donna added, "It is very reassuring to know that Dad will be beside me all the way. Training is going pretty well although there’s still a long way to go until the big day!"

To find out more about the work of the Retired Greyhound Trust, contact them nationally on 0870 444 0673 or check out the website at www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk