Leominster'S Debbie Phillips dressed as a 'Jack in the box' to get noticed in a Hyde Park fun run - and drew the attention of a former Olympic champion.

The 47-year-old manager for Eaton Close Sheltered Housing Scheme for the Elderly bumped into sports star Sally Gunnell as she crossed the Flora Challenge line.

She was raising money for a ticket to Cuba next February when she takes part in a cycle challenge for the National Deaf Children's Society.

Debbie collected £200 towards the £2,000 entry fee in the women's race around Hyde Park when she joined 2,000 runners, including celebrities Wendy Richards, Gail Porter and Lady Ann Redgrave.

Her greatest triumph came when she was praised by Sally Gunnell for finishing the course.

"She asked who I was running for and how much I had raised and congratulated me on completing the course.

"Then much to my surprise my interview appeared on TV on the Sunday evening. My residents thought it was wonderful," said Debbie.

She decided to raise money for deaf children after taking a signing course to help her with her job.

Anyone who would like to sponsor Debbie may contact her at 14 Eaton Close, Leominster, Herefordshire, HR6 8LQ or tel 01568 612703.