FIireman Rob Warwick has celebrated his marathon with a special, permanent memento.

After taking on the race for The Micro and Anophthalmic Children’s Society, which helps children with serious eye problems, Mr Warwick has had a tattoo reading ‘XXVI.II’ (26.2) etched onto his leg.

The Scotsman, who has run 14 half-marathons in two years, said he was already in so much pain that he barely noticed the scratch of the needle.

He said: “I just thought I’d get on with it.”

Mr Warwick, who has been in the fire service since 2000, previously served all over the world during 15 years with the RAF. He will carry the Olympic torch through Chippenham on May 23.

“I wanted to do the marathon in five hours, but in the end it took five hours and 43 minutes,” he said.

“I’m definitely not put off from doing it again – I’ve got unfinished business with miles 18 and 22.

“At mile 18, both of my legs cramped up and I had to stop for ten minutes to have them massaged. At mile 22, my legs had just had it, and I had to half-run, half-walk the final few miles.”

Mr Warwick said the atmosphere was electric on the day.

“It was just unbelievable,” he said. “The support I’ve received has been absolutely phenomenal.”

To donate, visit uk.virginmoney giving.com/RobWarwick