A Worcester police officer who nearly died and was told he would never walk again after being involved in a major car crash is getting ready to run this year's London Marathon.

PC David Austin has stunned family, friends and medical professionals by making such a miraculous recovery that he is now in a position to run the gruelling 26-mile course around the streets of the capital.

The 29-year-old former pupil of Christopher Whitehead Language College, St John's, Worcester, said: "I am just so pleased to be able to run the marathon at all. I'm doing it because I can do it and don't take something like this for granted any more.

"I was basically told I would probably be in a wheelchair for the rest of my life and had to learn to walk, and then run, all over again. It was a long and painful process but it was worth it."

PC Austin said he was on duty and responding to a 999 call when he was involved in a car crash on Droitwich Road, Worcester, in November 2003.

He hd a fractured skull and a broken leg and was put on a life-support machine during a six-week-long coma. The collision also left him paralysed on the left side of his body.

PC Austin said: "The first time the doctor said I would probably be in a wheelchair for the rest of my life I thought, No I'm not' and with a bit of luck and determination I got to be where I am. I do think somebody was watching over me that night otherwise I definitely wouldn't be here."

PC Austin, who is now back on the beat patrolling the city's streets, said he had help from the police, family, and friends but none more so than his best friend John Birbeck, who visited him in hospital every day and trains with him regularly.

The pair are now hoping to raise £4,000 for St Richard's Hospice, Spetchley Road, Worcester by running the London Marathon on Sunday, April 13.

He said: "I want to give something back. I'm running for St Richard's Hospice because my mum, Dawn, has non Hodgkin's lymphoma. She was told she had six years to live, but that was seven-and-a-half years ago. That must be where I get my determination from."

PC Austin was presented with a personal achievement award on behalf of West Mercia Constabulary in July. Rod Reynolds, chief superintendant for South Worcestershire police, said: "The commitment David has shown to rebuild his health and strength has earned the respect and admiration of all his colleagues and he has been an inspiration to all."

Anyone who would like to sponsor PC Austin and John Birbeck for the London Marathon should call 08457 444888, ext 4953.