A HEART attack survivor from Halesowen put on his running shoes to complete the Reading Half Marathon to help other sufferers.
Rob Hawthorne, aged 39, who endured two heart attacks, a cardiac arrest and heart surgery 10 years ago, finished in 1hr 58mins on Sunday.
Not far in front was his friend, graduate surveyor, Laurence Noott, aged 25, from Belbroughton, who passed the finishing line in 1hr 43mins.
The pair, both devoted Aston Villa fans, were celebrating the 10th anniversary of Mr Hawthorne’s life-saving treatment.
The event was an opportunity to raise money and awareness for the heart rehabilitation charity Action Heart at Russells Hall Hospital.
The father-of-two and another friend, Jim Semple, have raised more than £7,000 for the fund with runs, including the Berlin Marathan in 2012.
Mr Hawthorne’ s heart problems were due to a family history of extremely high blood cholesterol, which is now controlled by tablets and a healthy lifestyle.
The managing director of Halesowen firm Embossed Polythene is already planning his next challenge – the Halesowen Triathlon.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here