BARNSLEY East MP Stephanie Peacock completed the London Marathon to raise money for local charity Barnsley Sexual Abuse and Rape Crisis Services (BSARCS).

She joined more than 42,000 runners along the famous course, crossing the finish line of her first-ever marathon in just over six hours.

Undertaking the marathon to raise money for the Barnsley-based charity, she has now reached her target of £1,000.

BSARCS is the sole group in Barnsley which provides specialist services to people affected by sexual abuse, sexual assault, rape, and any kind of sexual violence.

Working with women, men and children, they have helped around 1,500 people in the last year alone.

Stephanie said she was delighted to have raised vital funds for the charity.

“Barnsley Sexual Abuse and Rape Crisis Services is a fantastic local charity that does incredible work for people in our community, and I’m so happy to have completed the marathon and helped raise funds for them,” she said.

“I’ve never run anywhere near 26 miles before, but the kindness of the crowds gathered along the route and generosity of those who have donated made the sore legs worth it so thank you to everyone in Barnsley for your support.

“Though every step after around 15 miles hurt I took each one for BSARCS, and the thought of what a difference the donations will make to some of the most vulnerable people across Barnsley kept me going.”

Lynne Casserly, development manager at Barnsley Sexual Abuse and Rape Crisis Services, said: “We would like to thank Stephanie and everyone who has supported her in raising money for BSARCS.”