AN athlete is hoping her new shocking pink hair will help her stand out from the crowd when she runs in the London Marathon.

Student Jo Robinson, 20, of West Rounton, near Northallerton, will raise money for the children's unit at the town's Friarage Hospital when she competes in the 26-mile race on April 17.

"I said I would dye my hair if I raised a certain amount," said Miss Robinson, a former Allertonshire School pupil.

"I thought it would help me stand out in the race and bring more attention to my fundraising cause."

The keen rugby and hockey player has been training hard for the event.

She ran the Edinburgh marathon last year and is hoping to finish this race in about 4hr 50min.

"I lways planned to run the marathon, but I also wanted to do it for a local cause," she said.

"The children's unit helps so many local children every year that it seemed a good way to help the community."

Call (01609) 882288 to sponsor Miss Robinson.