A woman with learning difficulties has completed a charity 10k run to support the service she uses in Enfield.

Sarah Arsalides was one of the many runners who took part in the Vitality British 10k event in London on Sunday, July 10.

She was one of six people running to raise much needed cash for Enfield Mencap, which supports people with learning difficulties and autism.

Monica Rivers, Enfield Mencap chief executive said Ms Arsalides had come up with the idea of raising money after becoming worried about the impact council cuts could have on the service.

She said: “I told her that Enfield Council have been asked to make some big decisions regarding money and that there would be some challenges on the way, but that Enfield Mencap would do everything it can to continue to exist for people with a learning disability and autism, it has been holding on for 50 years and hopes to continue for many, many more.

“Wanting to know what she could do to help, Sarah asked if she could take part in an event for us, she decided on the 10k.

“Not being a runner and there only being five or six months to train we agreed to support Sarah to achieve her personal challenge.”

Ms Rivers said they scheduled training sessions for Ms Arsalides and a small group of her friends to learn more about running, health and fitness and prepare for the big day.

She called her commitment to the event “amazing”, including overcoming hurting her ankle on the Tuesday before the event.

Ms Arsalides completed the course in one hour and 44 minutes.

She said: “It was such a proud moment for us all, particularly Sarah’s mum, what an achievement.

“Watching the Members achieve their goals is what makes our work so rewarding.”

If you would like to support Sarah, make a donation at uk.virginmoneygiving.com/charities/enfieldmencap.