Plymouth Evening Herald journalist Charles Elder has proved he can meet even the toughest of deadlines, after completing his third marathon.

Deputy chief sub-editor Charles was one of a handful of regional press journalists to take part in this year’s London Marathon, and achieved his goal of breaking the three hour mark – finishing the 26.2 mile race in two hours 58min.

Charles, (38), said: “I’m delighted. It took six months of hard training, but it paid off.

“It was hard going and a hot day, but it all went to plan.”

Another experienced runner taking part was Hull Daily Mail deputy production editor Chris Oxley, who completed his third London Marathon in three hours 43mins while raising money for homeless charity Shelter.

Just seconds behind him was Scunthorpe Telegraph deputy editor Jane Manning, who shaved 47 seconds off last year’s time, crossing the finish line in three hours, 43mins and 45secs.

She also raised around £600 in sponsorship which will be donated to the Royal Vetinary College, which is currently carrying out a research programme to find a vaccine to treat dogs suffering from cancer.

Jane said of the race: “It was fantastic. It was a smashing day, really hot and everything went right.”