A SUFFERER of spina bifida was the ‘last man standing’ in the London Marathon on Sunday.

Dean Godwyn, who has lived with the condition which means there is a fault in the development of the spine, arrived last place after almost 12 hours on the move.

The runner from Northolt, who doctors believed would never walk, set out to fundraise for Shine and committed himself to training before the event.

Mr Godwyn, 31, raised over £8,000 for the charity which works to support everyone affected by spina bifida and hydrocephalus, a build up of fluid on the brain.

The Ayia Napa events organiser, said: “I found getting to the seven mile mark really painful and my recovery time was about a week to 10 days. I did three major runs before the marathon; nine miles, 13 miles and 20 miles. They were all equally painful but it was consistent pain which didn’t get worse as I went on, which actually gave me hope."

He said he can normally run for about 400m but needs to rest before carrying on.

His 18-year-old brother, Dylan Coone, said: "Dean has not had it easy throughout his life and has come out the other side an inspiration to everyone that knows him. He never complains and is the most positive and inspiring person I’ve ever met and I’m very proud that he’s my brother."

Family and friends were present to watch Mr Godwyn reach the end, despite the fact the finish line had long been removed.

The support of his girlfriend and training partner Zara Webber also helped to keep him going.

When Mr Godwyn made it to the Mall after 10pm, his spectators, including Shine Marketing and Events Officer Clara Gill, held a make-shift ribbon for him.

Mr Godwyn was also presented with a medal donated by another runner who had heard of his incredible feat.