THE proud parents of Paralympic gold medallist Richard Whitehead are drumming up support as he embarks on his next challenge – 40 marathons in 40 days.
Geraldine, 62, and John, 65, from Lowdham, said their son – a double amputee – is an inspiration to everyone and is proof that being disabled doesn't stop you from achieving your goals.
Mrs Whitehead said: "I am really proud. He has done so much. His aim is to show people there's no such thing as 'can't'."
The 37-year-old athlete, who won gold at the 2012 Paralympics, currently holds the world record for double amputees in the 200m, half-marathon and marathon.
Richard received his MBE at Buckingham Palace last month for his services to sport.
Now he is embarking on a new journey, running a marathon a day for 40 days, starting on August 13. He is hoping to raise £1 million for two charities, Scope and Sarcoma UK, by doing the challenge, which will take him from John o' Groats to Land's End.
Mrs Whitehead said she has already put posters all over the village to raise awareness of the challenge.
She said: "Everybody in the village wants to support him. Whatever happens, he will do it. If he starts something, he will finish it because he puts his mind to it."
A postbox was painted gold in Lowdham in honour of Richard after his Paralympic success.
His father said his son has always been into sports and was a keen swimmer and gymnast when he was younger.
He said: "He is a big inspiration. Young people look up to him. He shows people what they can do and wherever he goes in the world, [his fans] follow him."
Mrs Whitehead said she can remember when Richard first began running.
She said: "He started running at night in Colwick. Just three weeks later, he ran his first marathon in New York.
"He was elated after that and it gave him the encouragement to spur on to the next one."
Richard and his parents are encouraging the people of Nottingham to take part in his 5k Family Fun Run, starting at Victoria Embankment on Sunday, September 8.
To register for the run or to make a donation visit www.richardwhiteheadrunsbritain.com
