A postwoman is rising to one of the UK’s biggest sporting challenges after battling cancer for five years.

Kerry Campbell, 36, is taking part in the London Marathon in aid of Cancer Research UK – the event’s official charity partner.

Ms Campbell, from Langley Green, Crawley, was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2010 and underwent a lumpectomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

She said: “I won’t lie, the chemo was tough going, but the nurses at Crawley Hospital were fantastic. My uncle used to send me different costumes and funny wigs and masks to wear to each session which lightened the mood in the treatment room.

“I like to think of it as making good of a bad situation. Cancer was not going to stop me having fun.”

Ms Campbell responded well to the treatment and in February 2011 began a course of tamoxifen which she is still taking.

She said: “Cancer Research UK is very close to my heart. I was shocked and devastated when I was diagnosed with cancer but, thanks to research, I am still here today.

“By raising money through the London Marathon, I want to help the charity ensure more people, like me, are treated successfully.”

Ms Campbell is aiming to complete the marathon on April 26 inside five hours and raise £2,000.

To sponsor her, visit uk.virginmoney giving.com/kerrycampbell1.