Archant Suffolk’s health reporter Lauren Everitt completed her first London Marathon in support of St Elizabeth Hospice on her 26th birthday.

The Holbrook resident finished the race in around seven hours, saying it was “one of the hardest things I’ve ever done”.

“The first few miles were really good but it became harder than I ever imagined towards then end and I found it a real mental battle just to keep going,” she said.

“I’m proud I’ve completed it, really pleased that I’ve been able to support the St Elizabeth’s Hospice and want to say a big thank you to everyone who supported me.”

In celebration of turning 26, Miss Everitt’s friends and family sang her happy birthday from the sidelines and had a cake waiting for her at the finish.

After the race, she went for a birthday meal and a few drinks “to ease (her) aches and pains”.

To donate visit: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/LaurenEverittOther Archant employees to complete the race included news editor Brad Jones, who finished in 2h 38m.

Meanwhile Matt Hunt, who works in the advertising department, also completed the race in 2h 46m.