A Reading local has completed two marathons in two days across the Sahara Desert for two charitable organisations.

Laura Chandler, who is a lead nurse at the independent boarding school, LVS Ascot, tackled temperatures of nearly 40 degrees in the Ultra Saharan Challenge.

The trek, which took place in Morocco, saw Laura go through rocky trails, red clay Berber villages and sandy dunes, as well as additional areas of going through tough terrain whilst camping in the middle of near.

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However, she completed her challenge and raised more than £3,000 collectively for both charities, doubling her initial target of £1,500.

During her career, she previously cared for children who used the hospice services at Naomi House & Jacksplace, which inspired her to take on this challenge for the charity

She said: “The Saharan double marathon was the toughest challenge of my life.

“I experienced brutal temperatures and we didn’t have shade for hours at a time.

“The uneven terrain involved tackling steep hills, rock plains and boulders.

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“It pushed me to my limits but it’s something I am forever going to be proud of.”

On the charities she chose, Laura added: “Naomi House & Jacksplace is a lifeline for many people.

“I chose to fundraise for them in memory of a little boy I cared for years ago.

“I felt like he was looking down on me and helping me get through the toughest parts of the journey.

“I am so proud to have raised so much money for the charity and completing this challenge, and thankful for everyone’s support.”

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Tash Haji, Senior Fundraiser at Naomi House & Jacksplace, added: Thank you, Laura.

“The amount you have raised is incredible, and will help us to support local life-threatened and life-limited children, young adults and their families.”

The money raised from Laura’s Ultra Saharan Challenge will help Naomi House & Jacksplace continue to provide specialist hospice care to hundreds of life-limited and life-threatened children, young adults and their families from across central southern England.

Donations can still be made to Laura’s JustGiving page.