Most charity runners struggle to complete one marathon a year. But for Simon Levy, 29, the London event completed an eight marathons in eight days challenge.

The Norfolk maths teacher ran in memory of his grandparents Judah and Jessie Shoop and has raised nearly £6,000 along with running mate Kevin Revell, Mr Levy's share going to the British Heart Foundation.

Mr Levy first ran the Paris Marathon on April 10 and then made his way to London, running at least the equivalent marathon distance each day. He remained up to speed on Sunday, finishing in 3:32, just two minutes more than his time in Paris.

"We had support from our friend who drove alongside us, giving us water and food all the way to London," he said. "One day was particularly difficult. We ran 31 miles in the very hilly South Downs. But the support we had in London was just incredible.

"It's famously a very friendly and supportive atmosphere, but this year was tremendous. I have never experienced anything like that before. My brother and sister said that I have inspired them both to run the marathon and if they do, that would be incredible."

He has only a short time to recover before tackling a 50 mile "ultra marathon" in the Alps in July with his running club.