An employee at Northallerton-based Bayford & Co, the UK's largest independent fuel supplier, is on route to success as she tackles the Edinburgh marathon for charity.

Gill Nicholas, who has been employed by Bayford, the Sunday Times Best Small Company to Work For 2006/2007 for six years, is being supported by her colleagues and peers as she takes on her first full marathon which will raise funds for World Vision.

Gill is a keen supporter of the international charity, which is committed to overcoming poverty and injustice. Funds raised will help to enable developing communities to support each other and produce sustainable change.

Now in its fourth year, the Edinburgh Marathon, which tours some of the city's most famous landmarks including the castle and Scott's monument, is expected to attract over 10,000 runners to the starting line on bank holiday Sunday. It is hoped that approximately £300,000 will be raised for over 100 different charities.

Said Gill: " The money I raise will not only help tackle issues such as famine and disease, but I am certain that it will put into perspective any minor aches and pains I may feel as a result of the run."

Gill, a Business Developer at Bayford & Co, is also rounding up the team to participate in this year's Great North Run.