A NUMBER of runners based in Taunton took on the London Marathon over the weekend, both in London and at home in the virtual version of the event.

Runners from Running Forever RC and the Hydro Harriers, both based in Taunton, took part.

For the Hydro Harriers, Brian Stenson took on the London Marathon in person and he posted a solid time of 3:38, seeing him finish in 7432nd place from a total field of 35,300 finishers.

Somerset County Gazette: Brian StensonBrian Stenson

Closer to home, Ian Salter completed the ‘virtual’ event, completing a 26.2 mile course around Taunton in 3:59.

Running Forever Running Club had fifteen runners compete in the event in London, and their first representative back was Peter Gould in 2:53.

The next trio over the line were Dan Talbot 3:07, Emma Kiernan 3:08 and Ali Bisatt 3:09.

Somerset County Gazette: Dan TalbotDan Talbot

Martin Webb was next in with a time of 3:46, Matthew Paul followed with 3:48 and Sam Wharton 3:50 was hot on his heels.

First time London Marathoner Sally Tuer collected her medal after finishing in 4:14, followed by Andrew Phillips 4:18.

Somerset County Gazette: Sam WhartonSam Wharton

Arthur Lewis and Ann-Marie Crampton both crossed the line together in 4:30 and Jane Cooke followed in 4:47.

Completing their first 26.2 mile distance were Rosie Benneyworth who finished in 4:54 and Tanya Gault 5:35.

The final runner to run up the Mall was Craig Moore 5:55.

The club also had a number of runners complete the Virtual London Marathon all of whom devised their own routes in the local area and ran with friends and club mates.