RUNNERS from across Worcestershire successfully battled atrocious weather to complete the London Marathon.

They were among the 33,000-strong field pounding the streets of the capital during heavy rain, high winds and low temperatures yesterday.

"It was a completely fantastic experience and something everyone ought to do," said a jubilant Vivienne Keeble, of Broadway Grove, St John's, who ran a marathon for the first time at the age of 54, in aid of St Richard's Hospice.

"I didn't know what to expect but I got around okay in four hours 48 minutes. I don't know where I got the last mile from but with the crowds on the streets you just fly. They were fantastic.

"Seeing all the messages people have almost brings tears to your eyes and you begin to consider how lucky you are to be running it," added Vivienne, who said she was now looking forward to competing in the New York marathon.

Fitness fanatic Juliet Farmer reported sore feet and blisters but no major injuries as she completed the course for the first time with friends Lisa Hope and Rachael Bridge, all from Droitwich.

"It was a brilliant experience. It takes over your life a bit but looking back at the day I've had it's definitely something I'd like to do again," said Juliet, running for KIDS, which helps children with disabilities and special needs.

"I think generally the runners were quite happy with the weather - I was a spectator last year, when it was really, really hot, which is very uncomfortable."

But not everyone found the weather to their advantage. Worcester firefighter Simon Gillett admitted he suffered from the dreaded "jogger's nipple", caused by chafing against wet clothing, because of the inclement conditions.

"I got through it successfully in three hours 36 minutes. I was quite pleased with that due to the conditions because it was terrible weather," said the 40-year-old, who completed the race for the third time.

"It was absolutely freezing cold around the streets and sheeted down with rain - it was the worst rain and wind I've known. But the crowd was out of this world and that's what pulled everyone through.

"Hopefully, plenty of money will have been raised because that's what it's all about," added Simon, who hopes to collect more than £1,000 for Acorns.