10:44am Wednesday 18th April 2012
By Helen Barnett
A former soldier who suffered a stroke while cycling in Uganda will run the London Marathon to give something back to the people who have supported him.
Fitness fanatic Paul McClelland, 45, of Jubilee Close, Dovercourt, collapsed three years ago during a trip with a friend.
Before the devastating stroke, he had completed the London Marathon eight times and had spent nine years in the Army as a Lance Corporal.
His role with the Royal Logistic Corps took him across the world and involved him working as a fitness instructor.
The stroke has affected his speech and his right arm and leg.
He was referred to Headway Centre, in Boxted Road, Colchester in October 2010.
He visits the centre every Thursday where a volunteer helps him work on improving his speech, writing and reading.
Mr McClelland’s arm is still weak but with his mobility back on track he has been able to run 50 miles a week for his marathon training.
He ran the Bungay Marathon last year in 3.02.29 hours and when he was 15 he completed the Harwich Half Marathon in 1.40 hours.
The 26.2-mile London Marathon takes place on Sunday, April 22.
Paul hopes to raise £500 for the charity. To sponsor him visit justgiving.com/Paul-McClelland2
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