A FUNDRAISING event was held for Emma Smith on Saturday, which raised funds for her London Marathon entry on April 26

The London Marathon entrant was putting the finishing touches at Christ Church Community Centre to her growing fund of £2,120 ahead of the big day on April 26.

Crafts, cakes, live entertainment from a Disneyland princess and a snail race organised by Emma’s dad were put on to draw in some final few donations.

The 35-year-old is raising money for Parkinson’s UK after her father was diagnosed with the disease and has been banking mileage with running club Slinn Allstars in preparation.

“It has been quite hectic in places, but I have to thank a lot of my friends and family, who have given up their time to come and help me today,” said Emma.

“The aim is not to put prices on anything today, but to offer some nice things up and hopefully, people will make a suitable donation.”

Sisters Lisa and Amy, brother-in-law Chris and husband Phil got special mentions for their assistance on the storm-soaked Saturday event.

“I thought this would be a nicer proactive way of raising money with the kids (five and two) in mind, after they have missed me so much with the all the training runs,” said Emma, who works for Aldi.

Her bosses at the retailer have already made their donation of £250 on behalf of the company.

After two big 20-mile races in her build-up and another training run of the same distance planned for yesterday (SUN), Emma’s target time has started to tumble.

From a respectable five hours, the Lansdown Road resident is now hoping to hone in on four hours, 45 minutes.

To donate, go to Just Giving’s website and search for Emma Smith London Marathon.