A cancer survivor has completed a spectacular marathon along the Great Wall of China.

Richard Lanigan, 56, from Thames Ditton, was among 2,500 runners taking part in the Great Wall marathon earlier this month – a year to the day he was given the all clear for stage three rectal cancer.

The grueling challenge saw participants negotiate 5,164 steps on their way up the wall, before passing through rural villages east of Beijing.

Chiropractor Mr Lanigan completed the course in six hours and 39 minutes.

The father-of-four said: “Cancer drove me up the wall, but now I’ve conquered both cancer and the Great Wall marathon.

“Twelve months ago to the day, I finished treatment for stage three rectal cancer.

“I am fitter and happier than I have been in years. I do at least an hour’s exercise every day, eat lots of fruit, veg and oily fish, red meat for a treat once a month and no processed meats.

“In the future, no matter what happens, I want my children to see that they can achieve anything in life, if they put their mind to it and never give up.”

Mr Lanigan was running in support of Penny Brohn Cancer Care. To donate, visit justgiving.com/livingwell.