RUNNERS from Torfaen tested themselves against one of the most formidable and famous events in UK athletics, The Virgin London Marathon, on Sunday.

The 26.2 mile event, which weaves through the city of London and passes a host of renowned landmarks, attracts thousands of competitors annually.

Nine runners from Pont-y-pwl & District Runners club participated along with fundraisers, completing the distance for an array of charities.

A group consisting of Steve Davies, Iestyn Rhodes, Keith Langley, Nicola Smith, Dave Timson, Sarah Coote, Becca Gledhill, Jonathan Knight and Louise Bright represented the running club from Torfaen.

Mr Davies and Mr Rhodes led the way, both finishing in under three hours – two hours, 57 minutes and 55 seconds and two hours, 59 minutes and one second respectively.

Mr Rhodes said: “I was really pleased with my run as I ran an even pace throughout, and hit my target of 2:59.

“I’m looking forward to shifting my focus on swimming and cycling to prepare for the Ironman race in Tenby in September, working with the running club’s partner organisation, Torfaen Triathlon Club.”

Ms Smith, who completed the course in three hours, 58 minutes and 45 seconds in her debut marathon aged 50, said: I didn't stop smiling all the way round.

“I have been watching the London marathon on TV since it started and always said I would do it one day.”

Meanwhile, Karl Parkinson, a former armed forces serviceman from Cwmbran, completed the course in six hours, 58 minutes and 39 seconds.

Mr Parkinson, known as Charlie, is partially sighted, and ran the course with his ophthalmic consultant Dr Andrew Feyi-Waboso, with the pair splitting their money raised between two charities - Blind Veterans UK and Sight 2020 Direct.