TWO childhood friends who lost touch will complete their biggest challenge together next weekend.

Tracy Earley, aged 41, and Debbie Carter, aged 44, went to Appleton Thorn Primary School together but lost touch until they started working in the same office in Warrington.

Next Sunday, April 15, they will compete in the Brighton Marathon. Tracy raising money for the Meningitis Trust and Debbie for Guide Dogs for the Blind.

For Tracy it will be her second marathon and forms part of her training for an ironman triathlon race in Frankfurt later this year where a marathon will form the final leg of the trek.

For Debbie, it will be her first after finishing the English Half Marathon in Warrington last year.

The friends have enjoyed training together in preparation for the charity challenge.

And Tracy, who will be cheered on by her partner, said it is something everyone should do.

“I loved it last year. The crowds and the people make it, there was a brilliant atmosphere.

“I am 41 and have an 18-year-old son so I am proof that anyone can do it.

“I wanted to raise money for meningitis because it is something that can hit anyone at any time and it is so dangerous,” she said.

Debbie, who will be supported by daughters Faye and Joy, said there is a mix of excitement and nerves as the big day looms.

“I have loved the training. You don’t realise it when you are driving but there is so much beautiful countryside in Warrington.

“Half of me is excited but the other half is petrified.

“I wanted to run for Guide Dogs because it is a forgotten charity and I am so grateful to people who have sponsored me. Everyone is skint at the moment so seeing the money coming in makes you very emotional,” she added.

To sponsor Tracy visit virgin moneygiving.com/tracyearley and for Debbie justgiving.com/ deborah-carter1.