A MOTHER and son duo from Trowbridge overcame the odds to finish this year’s Brighton Marathon, after injury scuppered their attempt to finish the race together last year.

Karen Arter and her son Chris spent months training and fundraising for WWF’s Team Panda ahead of last year’s race, only for Mrs Arter to suffer an injury in the third mile, preventing her from completing the challenge.

However, this year they were determined to cross the finish line hand in hand and managed to finish the race, which took place on Sunday (April 12) together in just over 6hrs and 48mins.

Mrs Arter, who works at Coventry Building Society, said: “Last year I was devastated to injure my ankle so early on. With Chris’ encouragement I managed to jog, walk and hobble to the half way point but after seeking medical advice, I knew it was the end of our marathon experience.

“However, I was determined that it wouldn’t be the end of our marathon journey and this year I had to ‘do it for the panda’. The marathon was definitely challenging but there was a great atmosphere.

“I’ve really enjoyed being part of Team Panda for the second year running and am proud that my efforts are helping to make a difference protecting wild species and places around the world.”

Son Chris, 27, added: “I’m really proud of my mum for completing the marathon. It’s a hard task, but all the hours of training were worth it when we crossed the finish line together.

“Being part of Team Panda was great and WWF cheering our names from the side-line kept us going, especially during the last few miles.” 

The mother and son duo were not the only Wiltshire runners to complete this year’s marathon, with Bratton dad Luke McHardy completing his first marathon in a time of 3hrs 40mins.

Mr McHardy, who lives with his wife Hannah and three children in Lower Road, took on the challenge to raise money for The National Autistic Society, after his eight-year-old son Flynn was diagnosed with the condition four years ago.

The 36-year-old, who owns Kitchen and Interior design company Luke McHardy & Co in Hilperton, originally set himself a fundraising target of £500, but has now raised almost £4,000 for the cause.

Mr McHardy said: “I completed the race in three hours and 40 minutes, although sadly my time increased as I had to stop when cramp set in at the 22nd mile.

“It was an incredible experience and the atmosphere created by the 100 thousand spectators was unforgettable. Saying that it was one of the toughest things I've done.

“All together with family, friends, clients and anonymous donations, I managed to raise £3,600 for the National Autistic Society for which I would like to thank everyone that donated.”