If you thought the thousands of runners who pounded the streets of London for 26 miles on Sunday were remarkable, then spare a thought for this guy.

Because Dave Cox, a 29-year-old chemist from Canterbury, has just completed the Marathon Des Sables, said to be the toughest foot race on earth.

It's a 150-mile, seven-day trek across the Sahara desert in blistering heat, often approaching 50C.

More than 800 runners took part and Dave finished in the top half – not bad for someone who hated cross-country at school and only took up running seriously four years ago.

He said: "Running on sand and up and down dunes is really tough and the searing heat means you really have to drinks lots and take salt tablets.

"The toughest day was the longest section which was 46 miles after which there were quite a few walking wounded."

See the full story in this week's Kentish Gazette.