A FATHER from Bridgwater, who raised over £1,800 in completing the London Marathon, has described it as a “fantastic experience”.

Simon Robinson was running the 26-mile endurance event for Lydia Biddlecombe, a friend of his son, William, who passed away just after her fourth birthday.

William is now five years old and his younger brother, Thomas, is two, and they were there cheering their dad on at the marathon.

Simon said: “I was very comfortable up until about 22 miles when the pain really started to kick in.

“Thankfully, at this point I heard my family cheering – they were a real sight for sore legs, perfect timing.

“The spectators were excellent and, although it’s not good form to accept sweets from strangers, I was very grateful for the jelly babies and wine gums on offer.”

Simon raised the money for the Wallace and Gromit Grand Appeal at Bristol Children’s Hospital and you can still help him reach his £2,000 goal by visiting uk.virginmoneygiving.com/simon.robinson