London Marathon runner reaches the East End at a snail’s pace

One London Marathon “runner” who is taking a lot longer than most to complete the course is nearing his target as he arrived in the East End this weekend.

Brian the Snail, a well-known character from the Magic Roundabout, is averaging one mile per day as he attempts to finish the 26-mile course and took a rest with Royal Wedding fans on Friday at St Katharine Docks.

His colourful costume which has brought smiles all the way on the route hides Lloyd Scott, 49, an ex-professional footballer who grew up in Stepney and who is trying to raise �200,000 for Action for Kids, which helps young people with physical and learning disabilities.

The former Leyton Orient and Watford player arrived at the Asda store in Eastferry Road today for a well-earned break before making up his daily mile target by heading along Eastferry Road to Marsh Wall.

Mr Scott lies on his stomach on a sled inside the 9ft costume and drags himself along the route for up to eight hours every day.

He is now ten days from the finishing line.

He has previously raised more than �5million for charity having previously tackled the route in a chain-mail knights costume and a deep sea diving suit.