AFTER a tough year training for the marathon and struggling with injuries, a Harry Potter lookalike managed to complete the run in dedication to his nan who has multiple sclerosis.

Simon Barnes, 29, has had a challenging year preparing to run the gruelling 26 miles for MS Society.

But he did it, dressed as Harry Potter, completing the race in four hours and 16 minutes.

Simon ran the London Marathon for his nan, who has suffered from MS for 18 years yet never complains about her condition.

Mr Barnes, of Lower Lambricks, Rayleigh said: “She helped me out a lot after I left university, as she gave me a place to stay where I grew up so this was dedicated to her.”

His training was a very mixed experience after suffering a serious knee injury last summer, but he didn’t let that stop him.

The sign fitter added: “Finding time to spare has been really difficult as I am self-employed so I have had to be really strict with my work life balance and get the runs in where I could.

"I did my longest training run at the end of March where I did 22 miles but I somehow managed to hurt my other ‘good’ knee after this run so I have been nursing that since the run.”

So far he has raised £1,376 but his target is £2,000.

Talking about the day of the run, he said: "In the end, it was great. Everyone is very friendly on the way up there, and it seemed that everywhere you went with a race number that people would accommodate you.

“They really help you keep going and the crowd are great at handing out sweets to keep you going. Unfortunately on the first bend of the race, my glasses took a tumble and broke but I managed to hold on to my wand for the whole race.

“I was hoping for under four hours, but after mile 20 I hit the so called wall and just had to walk a few times. No regrets though, I put everything I could in to it.”

Mr Barnes did the whole run dressed as Harry Potter, after being continuously told he looks like the wizard and a friend offering to sponsor him £100 for running the race as the character.

He added: “I was dressed as Harry Potter so they were lots and lots of 'go on Harry' or 'you’re a wizard Harry'.

"It was an offer I couldn’t refuse but it probably worked in my favour.

"It helps keep you going and even put a smile on your face when the crowd and especially the youngsters give you a beaming smile as you run past them and a few shouts of 'go on Harry'. It was great fun.”

To sponsor Simon visit justgiving.com/sibarnes