A SOLDIER proved he’s no mere marathon man, but an ultra marathon marvel by smashing a world record.

Staff Sergeant Jim Offord proved he was a lean mean running machine when he pounded 62 miles on a treadmill carrying a 40lb backpack.

The 34-year-old achieved the feat at Club Kingswood, in Basildon, where he shaved 26 minutes off the previous record by completing the run in 15 hours.

The determined dad did it under the watchful eye of his own dad, Brian, and mum Judy, who work at Club Kingswood, as well as fellow soldier Lance Corporal Richard Holmes.

But there’s no rest for Jim, who is now limbering up for an even tougher challenge of running ten marathons in five days.

Originally from Stanford-le-Hope, Jim made the world record attempt as it fitted with his training schedule for the physically punishing ten squaddies, ten marathons in five days, which he will complete in November.

The event will raise money for the St Dunstan’s Forces charity which helps soldiers in difficult times.

Jim who serves with the 39 Engineer Regiment, Cambridge, said: “It was great to break the world record and I really want to thank Club Kingswood for hosting the attempt and all the staff and members who turned out to support me as their encouragement really helped.

“I also want to thank everyone who donated to St Dunstan’s.”

To sponsor Jim visit st-dunstans. org.uk