MARATHON man Dimal Patel is preparing to conquer the Big Apple just two weeks after completing the gruelling London Marathon.

The blisters have hardly healed for the 18-year-old student - and he already has his sights set on a possible run-out in the New York Marathon in November.

But after smashing his previous record in the capital and raising more than £1,000 for charity in the process, one of Dimal's hurdles could be raising the money for the race in America.

Venture Scout Dimal, of Raikes Road, Preston, ran in London as part of the Muscular Dystrophy Group's 250-strong Rupert's Runners team who take part in charity runs throughout the world - sponsorship permitting.

Dimal said: "This was the second time I'd run the marathon. I'm so fortunate to be able to run - unlike many people with muscular dystrophy.

"It was a great atmosphere. I felt nervous but it was a great relief at the finish.

"I know Rupert's Runners compete in New York - that could be my next challenge. But if I decide to run in America I'd need to raise a lot of money."

Sally Ward, of the Muscular Dystrophy Group, said: "We couldn't raise the money we do without runners like Dimal. I know he is keen to go out to America."

She added that for the charity to pay for an all-inclusive trip to New York, Dimal would have to raise £2,000 sponsor money. Anyone who can help call Dimal on 796775.

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