Devon and Cornwall Police trainer taking on London Marathon in wheelchair

Andy Elliott is aiming to raise funds to support charity Spinal Research

A trainer with Devon and Cornwall Police is planning to complete the London Marathon in a wheelchair.

Andy Elliott is attempting the course in a wheelchair to support a friend who was paralysed in a diving accident.

The 50-year-old, who is not a wheelchair user, is aiming to raise funds to support charity Spinal Research in its mission to find a cure for paralysis.

Mr Elliott said the experience so far had been "incredibly humbling".

'Incredible resilience'

His friend, Andrew Russell, suffered a severe spinal cord injury after diving into a lake when the pair were at the University of Exeter together.

Mr Elliott supported Mr Russell throughout his initial hospital treatment and rehabilitation, helping him return to complete his degree by working as his study support.

He said he felt "privileged" to witness the "incredible resilience" shown by Mr Russell since suffering his injury in 1996.

"This attempt to complete the London Marathon in a self-propelled wheelchair is a tribute to him and the many others who live day in, day out without the option to walk away," he said.

'Unbelievably difficult'

Mr Elliott said the training experience had given him "a real insight" into the challenges faced by wheelchair users on a daily basis.

"Even things like managing drop kerbs, finding footpaths inaccessible, negotiating potholes and parked cars has given me a real insight into the daily lives of thousands of people like Andrew," he said.

Mr Russell said research and treatments into spinal injuries could deliver "potentially life-changing results".

He said: "This research is not just about being able to walk.

"Being able to regain movement in my hands and arms, for example, would give me so much more freedom and independence.

"Andy is taking on an unbelievably difficult challenge."

Mr Elliott said he anticipated the 26.2 mile (42km) course, which takes place on 21 April, would take him at least six hours to complete.