AMY Chalk spent years embracing the loneliness of the long distance runner but now, with a little help from a big group of friends, she has reinvented herself to inspire a new generation of keep-fit enthusiasts.

The former international marathon runner from Stanley is using the knowledge and skills built up from a lifetime of competitive running to help get Wiltshire fitter and healthier.

Chalk, now part-time for England Athletics as a Run Activator, has a mission of setting up beginners groups and with coaching development.

After years devoted to honing her own fitness levels – she once ran ran a marathon in two hours 39.37 minutes - she is now dedicated to helping the good folk of Wiltshire, in particular mums, to get fit.

“The running boom is immense and Chippenham Harriers has a flourishing beginners group,” said Chalk.

“There are 700 new runners in Wiltshire groups – excluding Swindon - who I am aware of from over the past year from March 2015 and I know there are other activity groups going on as well that haven’t been accounted for."

Since taking on the role, Chalk has developed school gate run for mums – and dads – at Derry Hill Primary School and Ivy Lane School in Chippenham with parents encouraged to go for a run immediately after dropping off their children.

She has also helped set up further running groups in Marlborough, Pewsey, Calne and Tidworth for military wives while Fitness Friday from John Coles Park in Chippenham is geared towards newcomers taking their first step.

“I just love what I do and feel like I have landed on my feet,” added Chalk.

“Doing this job has helped bring me back to the basics and just getting out there and enjoying a run.

"You just need a pair of running shoes and some kit so it is ideal for mums."

For more information about any of these groups , email Amy at: achalk@englandathletics.org