YOU might think marathon runners and ale drinkers are a breed apart — but one North Devon athlete has combined the two.

Claire Meech from Barnstaple, who is running the London Marathon for the first time in April, has persuaded Barum Brewery to produce a special Marathon Ale which will be sold in pubs throughout North Devon.

For every pint of Marathon Ale sold, 10p will go directly to the North Devon Hospice.

Claire, 37, said she was aware people might be more willing to support her if there was an added incentive.

She said: "Having a great pint of ale while supporting a local charity is the perfect match.

"My husband, Rob, has been my chief fundraiser and he thought it would be good to come up with ideas where people get something in return, rather than just hand over money."

Tim Webster, the owner of Barum Brewery, was happy to get on board for the cause. He describes Marathon Ale as a "very pleasant tipple" that would appeal to most ale drinkers.

He said: "It's a light and refreshing beer with plenty of flavour.

"With 10p from every pint going to the Hospice we would like to think that there will be plenty of pubs willing to sell it and help Claire achieve her goal.

"If any landlords out there can do their bit by stocking Marathon Ale I'd be delighted to hear from them."

Claire added: "My husband loves ales from Barum Brewery so I leave him to enjoy that while I put in the hard work.

"My training is really cranking up now.

"Knowing that so many people are supporting me and helping to raise money for the hospice really spurs me on."

Gerard Fawcitt, from the North Devon Hospice fundraising team, said: "It's not always easy to ask people for sponsorship these days, but as a local charity we still rely on the community to help us care for families in North Devon.

"However, offering an incentive like this delicious ale is a great way to get even more people involved.

"In the interests of quality control I will certainly be sampling a jar or two."

To sponsor Claire visit www.justgiving.co.uk/claire-meech