ASTHMA has proved no obstacle for one veteran athlete who sprints into his 21st London Marathon this weekend, alongside dozens of others from the town.

On Sunday Brian Watt, from Elcombe, will take on the iconic run to raise money for the Asthma UK charity.

Every year since 1995 Brian has crossed the finish line, with his current personal best standing at three-and-a-half hours.

When the runner began his London odyssey, aged 29, he never imagined he would be facing the 26-mile route more than two decades later. He said: “At first it was do five, then get to ten then 20. It really doesn’t feel that long.

“I was nervous that first time even though I’d been running all my life but nothing can beat the feeling when you cross that line. It really is a once in a lifetime event, although not for me.”

The fighting fit 50-year-old has had more to contend with than knee injuries and dodgy trainers. Born with respiratory illness asthma, Brian was told to steer clear of intense exercise.

“You just have to be careful with it,” he said.

“When I was younger some doctors told me not to exercise because it would make things worse, but it helps me manage the condition. Only one time I have started wheezing during a marathon but in general exercise helps me live with the condition and can help with different things.”

Asthma is a chronic disease that causes inflammation of the airways. Sufferers can experience wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing and chest tightness.There is no cure for the condition.

Brian has raised more than £25,000 for Asthma UK over two decades of marathons with a further £1,800 donated this year by his company Virtua.

The seasoned sprinter will be cheered on by wife Tracy, who herself has a marathon under her belt, and children Daniel and Jodie, who memorably crossed the finish line with him in 2001.

Brian joked the event had become a Watt family institution with his children responsible for him pulling on his running gear one last time. “The children were the ones who encouraged me to take part, Jodie loves going round the route and cheering on the runners, she thinks it’s a great day out” he said.

Friend, colleague and running partner Mark Prictor will also provide support at Sunday’s event with Brian looking forward to soaking up the sunshine and atmosphere. There’s so much to experience, there’s music playing, celebrities about, and plenty of food and drink.”

A celebratory post-marathon meal of a bacon double cheeseburger awaits Brian as he sees out his two decade trail in style.

And he won’t rule out going for lucky number 22 in 2016. He said: “I won’t be doing it again, but I did say that last year, so we’ll see.”

To donate to Brian and Mark visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/MarkPrictor.