A TROUBLED Marlow playgroup has received a welcome double boost.

The Marlow Opportunity Playgroup’s future was looking uncertain when it was given six month’s notice to leave its Victoria Road site last summer.

But it has now secured new premises in Wooburn Green for 2011 and also been told to expect a cash boost thanks to the efforts of a marathon-running couple.

News that the playgroup – which cares for 35 children with special needs – will move into the Scouts’ headquarters came as a “big relief” for playgroup leader Jane Gibbons.

“We didn’t know what the future was going to be,” said Mrs Gibbons. “We really wanted to stay in Marlow but there just wasn’t anything.

“It’s taken a while to get everything in place - we just couldn’t hang on.”

And the long-awaited announcement has been enhanced by the efforts of couple Iain Gordon, 34 - his daughter Ellie attends the playgroup - and Dominque Kent, 36.

The pair are planning to run separate marathons next year in a bid to raise £6000 and cover a year’s rent.

Mrs Kent is training towards running the London marathon just one week after Mr Gordon has tackled Paris’ equivalent.

“These carers are special people and we want to give something back - it’s one of the most magical places,” said Mrs Kent.

In order to conquer the London event Mrs Kent has joined a Marlow running group lead by Samantha Amend to aid her training.

And the early sessions provided by the Marlow Half Marathon ladies’ winner have already paid dividends.

Mrs Kent added: “Samantha has got an amazing amount of drive – you do need someone to give you a kick up the back side.”

Indeed, the couple’s fundraising efforts will come at a crucial time for the playgroup.

“The move will cost us a lot of money as we need to provide storage so it’s even more important than normal,” said Mrs Gibbons.

“We need all the support we can get and we really appreciate their efforts as fundraising will make the difference.”