A FUNDRAISING runner from Otley overcame injury to complete the 2017 Madrid Marathon.

Danny Cooney finished the race in Spain on Sunday, April 23 in three hours and 57 minutes - after needing medical attention, with only 5 kilometres to go, for severe cramp.

The run was Danny's fifth fundraising marathon of the past year and proceeds raised from it will go to the Lily Foundation, which supports families affected by Mitochondrial Disease.

He said: "It looked like Madrid would be the toughest race of them all and so it proved - there were a lot of climbs and the temperature was around 23C.

"Thanks to the quick reaction of the Spanish Red Cross and spectators I was able to get back up on my feet eventually after suffering cramp and get over the finish line.

"In some ways this one meant more. It was an amazing experience, like in Barcelona, to run in Madrid."

The final stage of Danny's Six Marathons in a Year (which began as a three marathon task) challenge will take place on Menorca on May 20, when he takes part in his first Ultra Trail marathon.

The Menorca run, which has a 17 hour time limit, will raise money for the Yorkshire Heart Centre at Leeds General Infirmary.

Other charities which have benefitted from Danny's previous recent marathons include Martin House Children's Hospice, HCPT Otley 198 Group and the Society of Vincent De Paul.

He said: "If I can get up to £6,000 pounds overall for the charities it will have all been worthwhile, and without the support and generosity of family, friends and local businesses it would not have been possible."