Reporter Paula Roberts is running her first half marathon at the first Bournemouth Marathon Festival in October.

She is being trained by Bournemouth’s Fitness First personal trainer Karen Morison and raising funds for the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation. To sponsor her and the Echo’s Andy Martin visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/PaulaandAndy.

KAREN has upped training a gear this week and set me my first 10-mile run.

I’ve found it a little tricky fitting in four runs a week but am trying my best to make sure I manage the long run, coupled with as many 40-minute runs as possible.

This week Karen asked me to run my usual three 40 minute runs of varying speeds but exchanged last week’s 60 minute run with a 10-mile course.

I planned out my route through the picturesque Moors Valley and, although the time wasn’t brilliant, I managed it! I struggled at the four-mile mark for some reason but by the end of the route had got into a nice stride and pace.

I have realised that my half marathon time is not going be quick – I’m just going to be happy to get round the course injury free.

Now I need to fit in some 40-minute routes to keep Karen happy, before my next training schedule lands on my desk.