A local Rotarian and GP recently completed his fourth and final marathon at the age of 68.

Ivybridge man Dr Paul Fletcher trained for a whole year to achieve the necessary fitness levels to take on the challenge, having previously run the marathon eleven years before.

Setting a personal goal of £6,000 for his chosen charities, he has already surpassed this, having raised £7,800. The money will be equally split between Arthritis Research UK, the British Heart Foundation and local children’s charity Jeremiah’s Journey.

Arthritis Research UK was selected as Paul set out to prove that you can overcome the effects of arthritis of the knee, through exercise, and this proved to be the case. Millions of people suffer with arthritis and they are the biggest funder of research into the cause of the condition.

Paul reached the finishing line in five hours, 46 minutes and 40 seconds - 77 minutes longer than 11 years ago. His only disappointment was being pipped at the post in the last two minutes, by a large rhinoceros.

Paul said: “I am extremely grateful for the huge support received, both mentally and physically, from family, friends and fellow Rotarians in achieving my goal.

“None of this would have been possible without their support. A special thank you has to go to the board of Devon Doctors - the county-wide out-of-hours medical service who provide medical cover in the evenings and at weekends. They very generously supported my cause and helped me achieve this remarkable total.”

For further information about the Rotary Club of Ivybridge, please email Adrian D’Cunha at [email protected]. If anyone would like to help to raise money for the local branch of Arthiritis Research UK, please contact Mary Blackler on 01752 698703.