Hard run worth it for Bryan
Armed forces cash boost
Stirling East councillor Bryan Flannagan was put through the paces at last weekend’s Stirling Scottish Marathon in aid of a good cause.
The Tory representative completed the 26.2-mile race in a time of 5:59:40 – raising more than £500 for the armed forces charity SSAFA Forth Valley Branch.
Mr Flannagan, a retired naval officer, was taking part in his first ever marathon.
And he says he’ll take away some treasured memories from Sunday’s running showpiece – despite the sore feet.
He said: “It was nice to see everyone pulling together. The camaraderie was great and everyone was talking and encouraging each other all the way round.
“The spectators really helped too. Every time you ran through one of the towns there were people there to cheer you on – and that gave us all a wee boost.
“It’s without a doubt the hardest thing I’ve ever done – but it was enjoyable and I think I’m going to sign up to do it again next year.
“Great Run put on a great event. I think it was a real success. They are so professional in the way they put it all together.”
Councillor Flannagan had completed halfmarathons in the past but wanted to really challenge himself this year.
He added: “When I actually finished my last half-marathon I thought it would be impossible to do a full marathon.
“But I just decided to go for it and sign up, which really motivated me and allowed be to focus my mind on it.
“I thought I could do it for charity and, as I’ve worked with SSAFA in the past and they do such great work, I thought I would raise some funds for them.
“I set a target of £500 but managed to beat that so I’m pleased with that.”
A spokesperson for the charity said: “This was a fantastic effort and we are extremely grateful to him as every penny will go to helping veterans and their families when they need us.”