Friends since school, both work part time at the Irvine Arms in Drumoak.

Donna said: "We both decided to do the half marathon last year as a way of keeping fit and raising money for a good cause, Sarah's mum ran last year and that's what put our minds on it."

Sarah chose a charity close to home as she is a pupil support worker in a special needs school in Aberdeen that includes autisitic children.

Donna decided to raise money for cancer research as she feels it is a good cause as it effects so many families.

They are rasing funds togther then splitting the total equally to their different charities.

Sarah said: "Our training has been a struggle as we are not natural athletes, however, we started with the Balmoral 5k in March then Baker Hughes 10k in May and we ran the race for life at the beach as well in order to work up to the 13.1 miles required for Newcastle. Our main difficultly has been finding time to undertake such lengthy runs as we both have full time and part time jobs, however, training is going well and were both looking forward to the weekend."

"We have raised £1300 but are hoping to reach over £2000. So far we have held a quiz night, had a coffee morning - both at the Irvine Arms. We have also been selling quizzes and cakes to work collegues and family - so our baking has been improving!"

She added: "In addition to sponsorship, we are planning to sell tickets for a fancy dress karaoke at the beginning of November at the Irvine Arms so hopefully this will increase our fund."

Anyone who wants to help the girls reach their target or donate prizes for the karoke night raffle, should contact Donna on 07974670428.