LADY Astor of Hever will run the London Marathon next month to raise money for The National Autistic Society (NAS).

She will be part of a 100-strong team of runners for the charity - spearheaded by their mascot Thomas the Tank Engine - to take on the 26-mile run on Sunday, April 17.

Lady Astor’s 12-year old daughter, Olivia, has autism, and she has led fundraising treks for NAS through Inner Mongolia, Peru and Cuba in recent years.

She said: "An estimated 530,000 people are affected by an autistic spectrum disorder in the UK today.

"I have first-hand experience of autism, my daughter Olivia has the lifelong disability and I know how demanding it can be. I am appealing to your readers to sponsor the NAS runners and help support people with autism and their families."

The team will also include former England cricket captain Alec Stewart. For more information about sponsoring the charity telephone 0207 903 3663.