Tom Downie finished the arduous 26.2 mile run despite carrying an ankle injury

A charity worker from Kensal Rise limped over the London marathon finishing line after completing the arduous run despite suffering from an ankle injury.

Tom Downie, of Hanover Road Kensal Rise, was warned off from taking part in the 26.2 mile race after he developed achilles tendonitis – inflammation of the ankle which commonly affects athletes.

But determined to take part in the race, Mr Downie ignored doctor’s orders and completed the run for NSPCC ChildLine in five hours 11 minutes.

He said: “It was absolutely incredible, the best thing I’ve ever done in my life.

“It was an overwhelming experience. On the day I didn’t think I was going to make it over the finishing line because my ankle was hurting so badly.

“But during the last few miles the streets were lined with people who read you name on your chest and shout your name. It is an incredible experience, it feels like all those people are there for you only.”

The first time marathon runner was persuaded to take part in the race by his friend who works at the NSPCC. But running is in Mr Downie’s blood as his father was a long distance runner.

He said: “I am not the sort of person who likes to gloat but I am really proud.”

He raised �2,000 for the NSPCC’s ChildLine.