INSPIRATIONAL people from across the globe headed to the capital to take part in a mammoth physical challenge this weekend.

Thousands of people descended on London on Sunday to take part in this year's London Marathon: an annual challenge that tests the mettle of athletes around the world and raises millions of pounds for charity. 

Since its origins in 1981, the marathon has thrown together some of the world's greatest athletes with some complete novices who take on the challenge to hit personal targets or make a difference to the people around them. 

One runner, 24-year-old Grant Johnson from Walney, took on his first marathon to raise money for Kidney Research UK after his childhood sweetheart battled kidney failure.

Mr Johnson, who completed the marathon in two hours, 25 minutes and 16 seconds, was elated by the experience and achieving a new personal best.

He said: "I'm sore but I'm happy as Larry. I beat what I thought I was going to beat so everything has gone plan. 

"It's not the fastest of courses but it's an amazing atmosphere. The streets are just lined with lots and lots of people.

"There's no part of the course where people aren't shouting at you; people are just cheering all the way around."

Although supported by everyone around him, Mr Johnson's biggest fan is his girlfriend, Amy Rowlinson, the inspiration behind his efforts. 

He said: "She's over the moon. She was hanging over the barriers for the last 200m but I didn't see her. I was just in the zone."
Preparing to take on the Great North Run in September, Mr Johnson is completely focused on the future. 

He said: "Seeing all the elite athletes there spurs you on and encourages you to get better and better. 

"Hopefully one day I will get to their level."

Another runner, Jonathan Lee, group development director at CN Media, has been training for months to raise money for the Brathay Trust. 

He said: "It was an amazing, amazing experience that I will never forget. The money I've raised will go to the Focus on Furness project so to think that has helped Brathay help young people in Furness is great and I think it's just a massive, massive privilege to be able to do that."

Mr Lee, who completed the course in four hours 38 minutes and 18 seconds, said the support from the crowds was more than he could have imagined. 

He said: "It was just the most incredible experience. Nothing prepares you for the crowds. Not just the cheering but they were handing out food and sweets - they were just unbelievable. 

"It was just an amazing experience from start to finish."

With charities across the nation benefiting from the thousands of people who take on the 26 mile course, many people look to help people closer to home. 

Dave Edwards, a Barrow police officer, ran the marathon in memory of his friend and colleague, David Platt, who died earlier this year. 

Mr Edwards said: "I've raised £1,316 so far for the North West Air Ambulance, which is the charity Dave's parents wanted to support. The initial target was £300 and it's still climbing. 

"It's a worthwhile cause and it's something local for somebody local."