A BITTAFORD man has run his first marathon to raise money for the Poppy Appeal.

Richard Lane, vice chairman of the Ivybridge Royal Brit-ish Legion, ran the London Marathon on April 24.

After only starting running a few years ago, Richard, 45, completed the 26.2 mile route in 4 hours and 24 minutes raising over £700 for the Poppy Appeal.

Richard said: 'I joined Erme Valley Harriers to make sure I stay committed.

'I ran in a few races and half marathons but I said I would never do a marathon.

'But after watching the London Marathon last year I decided to enter through the public ballot – where there is a slim chance of getting a place – and amazingly I got one.

'As the current vice chairman of Ivybridge Royal British Legion I thought I'd raise some money for the Poppy Appeal at the same time.

'I must admit I said I'd only do one marathon but I've entered the public ballot again for next year.'

He added: 'The atmosphere was amazing, to run the London Marathon was a privilege.

'I had my name printed and you get so many people shouting your name as you run past them it's amazing.

'Once all the money has been collected I should have raised over £700 which is good.

'It's thanks mainly to the regulars at the Horse and Groom in Bittaford.' If you still wish to donate, please visit virginmoneygiving.com/RichardLane.