Marathon effort in the fight against crime

Stuart Mitchell will run the 26.2-mile course on Sunday, April 24, on behalf of crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers.

The 44-year-old, who has been a victim of burglary, says he’s seen the negative impact that crime can have and hopes to make a difference with his fundraising.

He said: “I work for the police and am well aware of the role that Crimestoppers plays in assisting bringing offenders to justice.

“I was also aware that they are possibly not the most high profile charity and may be overlooked which was another reason I chose to run for them.”

Since signing up for the run, Stuart, a sergeant with Police Scotland, has put himself through a gruelling training regime – running between five and six times a week.

He said: “My training has been up and down as I have suffered a number of minor injuries.

“I am now up to running 20 miles. Fingers crossed there won’t be any more injuries.

“I did have the time ambition of breaking 3hrs 30 mins but this has now gone by the wayside as I’ve decided to just concentrate on getting round and staying injury free.”

Stuart’s goal is to raise £1,600 for Crimestoppers and has set up a Just Giving page.