AN Astley man achieved a life-long goal and raised more than £3,200 for charity by taking part in the London Marathon.

Tony Pickford, 47, who is an Astley area manager for The Co-op, completed the iconic event in just over four hours.

The money he raised from what was his first marathon will go to the British Red Cross, The Co-op’s charity partner, which is working to confront loneliness and social isolation in communities.

Tony said: “It felt great to complete the course. I would not describe myself as a keen runner so this is a personal achievement that I will never forget.

“Friends, family and the whole Co-op team got behind me and I would like to say a big thank you for their sponsorship and messages of support.

“Loneliness affects people of all ages and backgrounds and can be found in all types of communities.

“Our work with the British Red Cross will help to confront the issue of social isolation which can be felt by people all around us.”