THE sun shone on a Chirk-based Super Gran after she completed the gruelling 30-mile Heart of Wales Ultra Marathon last week.

Alyson Winn, from Froncysyllte, near Chirk, is 66 and only took up running seven years ago but completed the incredible 30-mile route last weekend.

Raising hundreds of pounds for Hope House, the children’s hospice near Oswestry and in North Wales, Alyson admitted the sense of achievement overcame the incredible effort needed to complete it.

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She said: “It was a great day on the ultra marathon, and the sun even came out as an added bonus – rain had been forecast!

"I have raised £320 so far but have another ultra coming up in September so the fundraising continues.

"I certainly underestimated the elevation – when they said the first 18 miles were all uphill, they actually meant it.

“It was quite a challenge getting all those miles done.

“It took me a couple of hours longer than I had anticipated, and an annoying blister developed in the last few miles.

“Overall I really enjoyed the day, and the sense of achievement after 30 miles.

“In addition, it's been a privilege to support the amazing work of Hope House and Ty Gobaith children's hospices."

Alyson is a dedicated fundraiser who has supported Hope House events including the Llangollen Canal Walk and Dark Runs, which she’s enjoyed taking part in with grandsons Curtis, Leighton and Liam.

She is a retired nurse and also recently stepped down from fundraising and admitted before the race that she was looking forward to her post-run eating as a celebration.

Hope House Area fundraiser Vicky Bradbeer was full of praise for Alyson’s efforts in helping to support Hope House, and congratulated her on her efforts in completing the ultra marathon.

She said: “All of us at Hope House are in awe of Alyson, and her amazing stamina.

“To take on an ultra marathon is incredible at any age.

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“Thank you to Alyson and all her friends and family who have supported her with training, encouragement and, of course, fundraising.

“Sponsorship from events and challenges like Alyson's mean that we can provide care, respite and support to children with life-threatening conditions and their families."

To support Alyson’s fundraising efforts, you can head to www.hopehouse.org.uk/marathon-gran