THEY started out as 30 unwilling participants, but all finished up by crossing the line at the Cardiff Half Marathon.

And what’s more, the Marie’s Marvels group, coached by endurance athlete and prolific charity fundraiser Marie Tilley, made more than £5000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation in the process.

The group formed in 2016, with the majority having never undertaken any kind of fitness programme. But as well as weekly circuit training in the Bloomfield Centre in Narberth, the Marvels have worked hard on their running en durance, with the BBC even coming to Pembrokeshire to film them as part of their half marathon build up coverage.

“To our amazement, most of us actually enjoyed it,” said Marvels member Claire Thomas.

“And most of us are doing it again next year. It’s been an absolute revelation- Marie has conquered 30 of the most unwilling participants ever.”

Marie, whose youngest son Marley is a type 1 diabetic, now plans to start another batch of ‘Marvels’, as well as ‘Misfits’ (for boys) and mini’s (for children).

“I’m super proud of all my Marvels,” she said.

“Their determination throughout the year has been spot on.

“I couldn’t ask for a more inspirational group of women who have proven to themselves they can do it.

“I’m so grateful to them for the support in raising a huge amount for a charity very close to my heart, the JDRF."