Shrewsbury-born marathon Mark Vaz forced to abandon record bid
Shrewsbury-born marathon Mark Vaz has been forced to abandon his Land's End to John O'Groats world record challenge due to injury.
The 32-year-old was aiming to complete the 800-mile trek in eight days, but pulled up near Okehampton in Devon due to a foot injury.
Mr Vaz, who is aiming to complete 400 marathons over the course of a year, initially battled on through the pain barrier but was eventually forced to call it a day on Friday.
He said via his Facebook page: "Thank you for all your support and messages, also a big thank you to my sponsors.
"Due to injury I will not be continuing the challenge this week.
"However, I will be re-scheduling it, and your continued support is very much appreciated."
Mr Vaz, who now lives across the Shropshire border in Penkridge, Staffordshire, has completed 277 marathons up to now.
He said he plans to start the challenge from scratch in May.
The 800-mile distance is the equivalent of 31 marathons and will constitute a new world record if completed within the allotted time.