A marathon runner from South Somerset has raised nearly £8,000 for a charity close to his heart.
Tom Brister, from Shepton Beauchamp, completed the London Marathon in three hours, 38 minutes, and 48 seconds, surpassing his four-hour target and raising £7,890 for Mind in Somerset.
He initially set a fundraising goal of £2,500, upped it to £3,000, and ultimately raised more than double that amount.
Mr Brister said: "Running the London Marathon has been a lifelong dream of mine, and I promised my dad before he passed away that I would do it for him.
"I was delighted when Mind in Somerset gave me the opportunity.
"Mental health is something close to my heart, and I’m proud to support a charity that helps people through difficult times.
"I couldn’t have done this without the incredible support from my family, friends, trainers, and local community – especially everyone who helped raise funds and donated so generously."
After more than a decade of applying for a place in the marathon, Mr Brister was offered a charity spot by Mind in Somerset.
Alison Baker of the charity said: "We are incredibly grateful to Tom for his dedication, determination, and hard work.
"Not only has he achieved an outstanding marathon time in his very first race, but he has raised an absolutely phenomenal amount for Mind in Somerset.
"To more than double his target is a truly amazing achievement, and we can’t thank him enough for the difference he will make to people experiencing mental health challenges in our community.
"After 10 years of trying to secure a place, we were delighted to offer Tom this opportunity, and he has made us incredibly proud."
The funds raised will help the charity continue supporting people across Somerset facing mental health challenges.
Share