A RUNNER has raised almost £2,000 for the British Heart Foundation after taking part in the London Marathon.

Stephen Smith, from Dunmow, completed the 26.2-mile run and has now raised a whopping £1,900 for the charity.

He was one of 350 British Heart Foundation runners who took to the streets of London to raise funds for the charity.

He took on the challenge for mum Denise and dad Gordon, who both have heart and circulatory conditions.

Stephen and his family have been supporting the charity since his mum became ill seven years ago.

He spoke with his mum shortly before starting the marathon, which helped him to get through the tough race

in a time of 4 hours and 39 minutes.

Stephen said: “Taking part in the London Marathon was a huge challenge and an incredible experience.

“Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it’s been a long wait to get to the start line and I’m proud of what I’ve achieved and the money I’ve raised for the British Heart Foundation.

BHF spokesman Lizzie Moscardini added: “It’s fantastic to see Stephen’s determination and courage in helping the British Heart Foundation raise lifesaving funds for people living with heart diseases.”