KIRSTE Snellgrove will show her determination to beat cancer when she runs the London Marathon.

First diagnosed with breast cancer back in 2005, the 39-year-old Benfleet policewoman has refused to let the disease halt her athletics career. Only last weekend she helped with the beleagured London tour of the Olympic flame.

Kirste, a member of Benfleet Running Club, has continued to run marathons and carried on her tough training while undergoing treatment.

Just last month, the cancer returned and she has had to undergo further operations. But just five days after surgery she was pounding the streets on a 15-mile training run and she will be running on Sunday.

"There is no one more deserving than Kirste," a running club spokesman said.

"She has shown so much courage and strength she is an example to us all.

"She has helped champion the cause of breast cancer charities and in 2006, with her help and fundraising of other club runners, Benfleet Running Club was able to present a cheque for £11,500 to Bosom Pals in Southend - a self-help group for breast cancer sufferers.

"She has helped many others with breast cancer learn to cope and thrive after their diagnosis."