WHEN Dawlish Coasters running club failed to secure places for this year’s London Marathon, members didn’t let the disappointment stop them.

Dedicated club members Charles Edmonds suggested hosting their own 26.2mile marathon event.

Five months later, his idea became reality.

The chances of being selected through the London Marathon are slim but the London Marathon MyWay event allows anyone to complete the distance on the same day, anywhere in the world, while still receiving the same medal and T-shirt as those finishing the official event in London.

Thanks to Charles’ efforts, 21 Coasters signed over, far more than expected, with most taking on the marathon distance for the first time.

To support them on their journey, Charles, who is described as a ‘local legend’ organised group training runs, complemented by training plans from fellow Coaster and personal trainer Kirsten.

So at 9am on April 26, the 18 runners gathered at Dawlish Warren green ready for the start.

Just like the London Marathon itself, a celebrity start was required and the then Mayor Cllr Anthony James and Junior Town Crier were on hand to perform the honours.

The designated route took runners along the seawall to Coryton Cove, all the way up to Bridge Road in Exeter, before returning to Coryton Cove and heading back along the seawall to finish at Dawlish Warren Green.

The runners were supported by a team of marshals, supporters, both on foot and bicycle, and aid station crews based at Race HQ in Dawlish Warren, Starcross and Exminster.

These were made up of fellow Coasters and family members, all determined to help the runners achieve their goals.

A special highlight of the day was the drumming performance by Sam Elliot and the children performing alongside him, creating a memorable atmosphere at the Starcross roundabout.

Throughout the afternoon, all 18 Coasters crossed the finish line, while Sonia Edmonds, Anne Steele-Arnette and Linda Diggines also completed the distance on their own routes.

Spokesman Natasha Cleave, who completed the marathon herself, said: ‘Every participant achieved something extraordinary and discovered great resilience along the way.

‘Huge congratulations go to James Kelly, James Rodwell, Alex Sykes, Sarah Edmonds, Charles Edmonds, Jason Moore, Ian Sampson, Sarah Visor, Rachel Collins, Darren Petch, Sarah Moore, Jo Rayner, Vicky Jacobs, Antje Derks, Katie Mortimore, Cheryl Hills and Stacey Scott on their incredible achievement.

‘For many runners, this challenge was about personal accomplishment, while others also used the opportunity to raise money for worthy causes.’

Natasha raised £874 shared between two local groups, Dawlish United Knights and Busy Bees Parent and Toddler Group.

Meanwhile, Anne Steele Arnett, aged 71, an RNLI volunteer, raised £2353 for the charity.

Some runners did manage to fly the flag for Dawlish in London with Tom Jacobs, Jade King, Elwyn Howell and Becky Carpenter for completing their 26.2 miles on the streets of the capital.