Jamie Coggins runs his first ever marathon in memory of a friend who lost his battle with Huntington's

First-time runner Jamie Coggins vowed to take up the challenge in support of Gourock man Colin Elliott and raise money for research to fight the devastating disease.

Dad-of-two Jamie bought his first pair of running shoes and spent a year pounding the streets in training.

Sadly Colin died a week before he ran the London Marathon, but Jamie went on to complete the tough 26 mile route, raising nearly £4,000 ($5,200US) for the cause.

Colin's wife Brenda today paid an emotional tribute to Jamie and his family for their support.

"It was tough but I was kept going by my daughter Eva holding a banner saying 'run daddy in memory of Colin'.

Jamie crossed the finish line on April 28 after seven gruelling hours on the road.

He was inspired to get fit after he was diagnosed with type two diabetes.

The 46-year-old said: "I just needed to make a change and I needed the incentive to do it."

posted Saturday June 15th