Sarah Johnson and Marcus Cashin, who live in Surrey Road, Bishopston, have just embarked on a training plan which they hope will keep them on track for the half marathon.

They are competing against each other not only to see who will cross the finish line first but also as a challenge to raise the most funds possible for their chosen charities St Peter's Hospice and CLIC Sargent.

The couple are set to attend workshops and training days to receive top tips from Bristol's running legends. So far they have already been hard at work fitting in training around their jobs.

Sarah, 29, who works as a PA for NHS corporate services, said: "We've been out to a shop called Easy Runner in Horfield where they put us on a treadmill and worked out our footfall. We need to get sorted with some trainers that are suitable.

"We've also been to the gym and picked up some tips to strengthen our core and keep our hips strong for running.

"Marcus has been building his confidence on the treadmill before he will go outside. Last night we hit the two-mile mark so he's doing really well.

"Tonight we've got yoga, circuit training and, if we can make it, we'll be going for a run afterwards – we're doing everything we can to prepare."

The couple also plan to attend one of the running workshops held at Coombe Dingle Sport Centre. The workshops aim to help runners get the best out of their training and will include guest speakers such as Olympians Steve Cram, Dan Robinson and Tracy Morris alongside top coaches Bud Baldaro, Bob Ashwood and Nick Anderson.

The next workshop at 6pm on Tuesday will feature a run and then a Q&A session with Steve Cram and Nick Anderson.

Sarah and Marcus are also going to embark on a healthy eating regime to ensure they are in top condition for racing.

"We're trying to be really healthy but we need some help knowing how best to fuel our bodies for the training," added Sarah. "There is so much to think about. We also need to get a head start with fundraising."

There is a special reason for Sarah's choice of charity, St Peter's Hospice. Her friend Sharon Sinclair, who recently died, was helped by St Peter's.

"She was diagnosed with cancer in the summer of last year and she moved to St Peter's Hospice in Brentry," said Sarah. "I'd known Sharon for a few years, we were close and did lots of girly shopping trips together and had a few weekends away.

"She was in her late 30s and had just got engaged so it was a huge shock to us all. I saw the work that went on at the hospice to take care of her and when she died her mum asked people to support St Peter's to give them a boost.

"I want to run and raise money for St Peter's Hospice to continue the work they carry out for other people and to keep Sharon's memory alive."

Marcus, 32, who works in finance, has chosen children's cancer charity CLIC Sargent.