It was third time lucky for Giles Arbery at this year’s London Marathon as the former Radwinter resident finally beat the five-hour mark for the 26.2-mile course.

Mr Arbery, 40, who was running for St Clare Hospice after they cared for his mother last year prior to her death, crossed the finish line in four hours and 43 minutes.

Mr Arbery, who is a former County High School student, ran the event in 2003 and 2005 and on both previous attempts he missed his five-hour target.

He said: “I was very happy with my time. I had forgotten just what an amazing experience it is, the crowds were so supportive and give you such a lift.

“I have raised around £2,500 for St Clare and that total is still going up. I think by the end, it will be more like £3,000. Lots of family members were there cheering me on, and it was great to see some Saffron Walden people among the crowd that I hadn’t seen in years.”

To donate, visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/GilesArbery.