AN OTLEY medical practice is setting a good example to its patients, as doctors and staff put their best foot forward.

Dr Simon O'Hara, Dr Marcus Smith and Elizabeth Grayson, receptionist from The Chevin practice on Bridge Street as well as receptionist at the Bramhope practice Debbie Bland have all run marathons recently, or are in training.

All four are taking part in the Great North Run later this month.

And one of the healthy health professionals is helping out charity at the same time.

Dr Smith is preparing for the New York marathon in November and is hoping to raise funds for Cancer Research UK.

He is also planning to run the Great North Run on Sunday September 26 in aid of Yorkshire Cancer Research and is appealing for donations from local people.

Dr Smith, 41, said: "Obviously in our work we see lots of people with cancer - and these are both very worthy charities."

Although he has run in a number of half marathons before he said the New York event would be his first complete marathon.

"I will get round it - but I won't break any records," he predicted.

"Doing five or six miles is enjoyable but doing more than that is a bit arduous."

But Elizabeth Grayson already has a marathon under her belt.

She said: "I ran the Langdale marathon in the Lake District two weeks ago. It's described as the most beautiful but toughest marathon in the country.

"I ran it last year for my first ever marathon because I like a challenge.

"We are all into fitness at this surgery - we like to set a good example."

Collection boxes have been set up at both the surgeries for anyone who wants to donate money to the cancer charities.