Third time lucky for marathon duo

Derek, from Punnetts Town, was due to run the 1999 marathon with his nephew Carl, but eight weeks before the event he had a cartilage operation and was forced to pull out. Carl, from Cranbrook, ran on his own.

In 2000 both were due to compete again, raising money for the Hospice In The Weald. Carl, however, was knocked off his bicycle while returning to his university digs in Eastbourne.

The driver did not stop and Carl was left unconscious on the side of the road. So this time Derek ran alone.

After three years Carl is back to a level where he can take part in the greatest people event in the world.

He has had to learn to play racquet sports with his good arm while carrying on life with steel rods, pins and plates in his right arm.

Derek, 53, and Carl, 24, have completed 100 days training for the marathon and covered 420 miles of tarmac.

They are again raising money for Hospice In The Weald and intend to cross the line on Sunday together.