Derry's 'marathon man' hopes to inspire future generations

A Derry man who completed the Walled City Marathon after recently receiving treatment for prostate cancer has said he hopes he can now inspire others to take up the challenge.

Danny Sheerin finished the 26.2 mile endurance run on Sunday despite having completed his course of treatment in Belfast in November.

And the 68 year-old’s task was made even more arduous due to the medication he is currently taking, which has resulted in him experiencing breathing difficulties.

Nevertheless, Danny, a veteran of the local athletics scene, made it around the course to be welcomed by his family and friends at the finish line.

“I’ll not lie to you, it was tough going, but it was well worth it,” he said.

However, the ever modest Danny, pictured above with his grandchildren Katie, Joshua  and his wife Rosie, said that he hoped that his effort could now inspire others to take up the marathon, if, as many people hope, it returns next year.

 “I hope that through what I do, I can inspire others to get out there too, the same way I was inspired by seeing people less fortunate than us doing amazing things," Danny added.

See today's Derry News for a full interview with Danny.