A co-owner of a coffee shop in Baldock completed last month's London Marathon to raise funds for a great cause - with a little help from her pals' special raffle donation.

Michelle Gibbs, the co owner of Pixie's Coffee Shop in Baldock, pounded 26.2 miles of the capital's streets, raising money for Brain Tumour Research. 

Speaking after completing the gruelling challenge inspirational Michelle said: 'It was an amazing experience.

"I've completed the marathon previously, but as a guide for a competitor who is partially sighted and in a wheelchair.

"This time I was solo running and it was so wonderful to be able to appreciate the crowds, the support, and the wonderful sights of London.

"When I got to the finish line I felt that I could just go on and on.

"I'm really happy to have raised such a large amount of money for this charity. My Auntie unfortunately died from a Brain Tumour in 2016 so this charity is very close to my heart."

As a way to raise additional funds Michelle was fortunate to be offered a hand made cigar box guitar made by Baldock cabinet maker, Gary Jones. 

Gary crafted this guitar using an old wooden cigar box, a hardwood neck and it even includes a pick up for amplification. 

The guitar was the prize in a raffle organised by Michelle and the winning ticket was bought by local drag performer, Magenta Slipperz, real name Hartley. 

Hartley said after winning "'m so happy to have won this guitar. I've known Gary for a number of years through the local music scene and after being diagnosed with a brain tumour back in 2009, I'm always happy to support charities in this field.'"

Michelle has so far raised more than £3,800 for the charity, but the donations window is still open via her just giving page. 

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Michelle-Gibbs7

Story courtesy of the legendary Magenta Slipperz