A speech and language therapist ran her first marathon in Brighton to raise funds for a human rights charity.

Radhika Lingham, 33 who grew up in Croydon, finished the marathon in 4:48:20.

She now lives in Southfields and ran for the Medical Foundation which helps survivors of torture living in the UK .

She said: "I took four jelly beans every half hour to keep my energy levels up and the crowds really helped too. The atmosphere was phenomenal - I couldn't believe how many people turned up to watch.

"The MF works with many Sri Lankan refugees. Being half Sri Lankan, I wanted to support a charity that helps people who've been persecuted by the government because of the civil war there.”

Despite the scorching heat, Radhika was glad she took part. She said: "My favourite costumes were Noddy, the dinosaur, and the stick of Brighton Rock. It was quite funny hearing the shouts from the crowd as we ran past - they were shouting, 'Go on dinosaur' or 'Come on stick man'. The Brighton Rock man finished before me, even though he was wearing a huge costume."

Charlie Keep, Head of Individual Giving at the Medical Foundation, thanked Radhika for her fundraising efforts.

He said: "Without the time and efforts of our supporters up and down the country fundraising on behalf of the Medical Foundation, we simply could not provide the vital rehabilitative services to those who have suffered torture and been forced to flee to the UK seeking refuge.

"Our congratulations and thanks go to Radhika for her impressive marathon effort and generous donation, which will go towards supporting some of the most vulnerable people in society and help them to begin the process of rebuilding their lives."

The therapist hopes to raise £750.

To donate go to www.justgiving.com/radhika-lingham