Galloway's Society for the Blind CEO completed the London Marathon, raising thousands for the Lancashire charity

The 50-year-old said: “Over the past few years, I’ve heard amazing accounts from people who have taken on the marathon for Galloway’s and each time I’ve saidI’d love to do that.

“This year was a little different for me, I had a milestone birthday and figured if there was ever a time to do it – it was 2018.

“The training has been tough, but I am so glad I stuck with it. Completing the marathon was a day I will never ever forget, a truly amazing experience.

“From about mile 15, it was really difficult, the heat was so intense and people were collapsing all over the route.

“But the thing that got me through were the crowds and the amazing messages and sponsorship that I’d received from friends, family and colleagues.

“I was really proud to be running as part of #TeamGalloways. I am a very small part of quite an amazing team at Galloway’s and throughout my time here, I’ve met some incredible people, who have learnt that their sight loss isn’t a barrier and it inspires me so much. I’m delighted that I’ve raised over £4,000 and I know that every single penny will help Galloway’s achieve more.

“I’d urge anybody who’s ever been inspired by the London Marathon, to get in touch with the Galloway’s fund-raising team. You will be making a life-changing difference to local blind and partially sighted people whilst experiencing the challenge of a life time and a day that will stay with you forever.”

Emma Russ, fund-raising manager at Galloway’s, said: “Stuart has worked exceptionally hard, in both his fund-raising and his training. When the training started, Stuart couldn’t run a mile but through his determination, he managed to train to 21 miles during a very rainy and cold winter period. The difference he has made and how much he has inspired every one of us here at Galloway’s.”

Galloway’s needs to raise more than £1m this year alone to continue to provide the life-changing support they offer local blind and partially sighted people. The charity operates across Lancashire and Sefton with bases in Penwortham, Chorley, Morecambe and Southport.

For more information about Galloway’s, the services they offer or their places in the 2019 Virgin London Marathon, call 01772 744148 or email [email protected].

To sponsor Stuart visit https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/StuartClayton4.

Lancashire Post and Galloway’s are joining forces for an appeal - Gallowheels - to raise £50,000 for a new minibus.

To make a donation visit http://www.galloways.org.uk/gallowheels; Call: 01772 744148 Text: GALL25 £amount, £1, £2, £3, £4, £5 or £10, to 70070. or send a cheque payable to Galloway’s to: Galloway’s Society for the Blind, Howick House, Howick Park Avenue, Penwortham, PR1 0LS. Are you holding any fund-raising events to support Galloway’s? Let us know by emailing [email protected]