RUNNERS from Worcestershire were among those to take on the London Marathon.
Tens of thousands of people braved the rain to compete in what was expected to be the largest-ever edition of the world-famous race.
Among them, was Worcester resident Andy Radford, 56, who was looking to raise money for Blind Veterans UK in his first London Marathon.
Speaking after crossing the finishing line he said: “Well I ran a personal best for a ‘major’ in my first London in under four hours, so I’m very happy.
“Despite the showery weather the support on the course and the camaraderie among the runners was memorable.
“I had family from across the UK to support and met a disproportionate number of fellow Worcester runners along the way.”
Joining him from the county was Steve Leighfield, who many will know as the landlord at The Bell at Eckington.
It was Steve's 11th London Marathon as he conquered the 26.2-mile course for Able Child Africa.
“It was as always a superb day, the crowds are amazing, runners supporting each other,” he said.
“What a way to spend a drizzly Sunday.
“To date, I’ve raised £2,000 for Able Child Africa, helping disabled children in Africa receive an education.”
In total, 49,675 runners registered for this year’s race, some 6,000 more than the previous record of 43,199 in 2019.
Malvern was represented in London by care home manager Megan Morgan.
She was running on behalf of Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity in honour of her godson Daniel, four, who was treated at GOSH after being diagnosed with Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome when he was just 12 weeks old.
“I had an incredible day. Running it was actually better than I expected, but I am feeling very sore now!” said Megan.
“All the support was amazing and I’m so pleased I was able to see Daniel, Holly and family on Tower Bridge with the little sign they had made – it was such a special moment.
“I’m so proud of myself, I did it and all for a wonderful cause very close to my heart.”
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