MARATHON runners from the Upton area have reflected on their big race in London, run in aid of the NSPCC earlier this month.

Dentist Andrew Heath, of Hanley Castle, finished in 4hrs 39min and so far has raised £1,800. He decided to run after his wife ran in aid of the NSPCC last year.

"The first half was good, the second half was very hard!" he said. "But I managed to run all the way, I didn't stop."

Mr Heath thanked his patients at the Abbey Cottage Dental Practice, in Ledbury, many of whom sponsored him.

Paul Price, from School Lane, had training problems when he injured his Achilles tendon in February. He made it across the line in 4hrs 17min, but says the challenge was tougher than he expected.

"It was very enjoyable but extremely hard. From 24 miles onwards, it was pain like I've never felt before," he said.

The 31-year-old, who works at Door Panels Plc in Upton, says he will have raised close to £4,000 when all the sponsorship money is collected.

Phil Sharpe, community appeals manager for the NSPCC, said the two men's efforts were wonderful.