A Workington man who has finished last in the Cumbrian Run five times feels like a winner after completing this year's event in his personal best time.

John Hastings, 42, of Mossbay Road, dedicated his record performance to his sister Terena Jane and uncle Tony, who both died from cancer.

John, who finished in three hours and 56 minutes, was so grateful for the support of onlookers and marshals that he has volunteered to become a race marshal for next year's event.

He set himself a target of £3,000 to be raised for Cancer Research UK after his uncle's death by the end of the year.

So far he has raised £1,564, which he hopes to top up with a fund-raising night at Workington's Harbour Side Bar next month.

He said: "The support I received throughout the 13.1 miles will stay with me forever.

"In the past, I've reached the grand final of Countdown, endured six rounds with Anne Robinson on The Weakest Link, presented my own show on community radio, had several poems published and came third at Cumbria's Got Talent - but I've got say that this achievement trumps them all - I am so proud of what I did.

"The response on social media has been immense and I am deeply touched by the kind remarks.

"I wish to thank my family, friends and work colleagues for their tremendous support."