Daniel Davis put in a sterling performance at the 2012 Virgin London Marathon as he came home in an impressive 58th.

The 24-year-old recorded a superb time of 2 hours 30 minutes 36 seconds in only his third ever marathon.

Last year the former Stanborough School pupil competed in the Berlin Marathon where he finished 101st in a time 2hrs 34mins 56secs.

Speaking of his first London Marathon, he said: “It was one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life and it felt extra special being on home turf and I can’t wait to do it again next year.”

Things didn’t go to plan for the Shaftesbury Barnet Harriers runner in training for the race when he suffered an injury, as he explains.

“A member of my club advised me on following a 16-week training programme which I started at the beginning of January.

“I was training at Copthall Stadium with my coach at the beginning of January but he retired mid January and from then on I was self-coached from what I knew and notes I had made from my previous experiences.

“Six weeks into my training I suffered a set back due to a small tear to a ligament in my foot and was unable to train for two weeks, but maintained my fitness through non-impact sports such as swimming and cycling.

“I bought some new trainers as advised by my doctor and then continued with the rest of my training without a problem.

“As part of my training I also took part in two half-marathons and two road relays for my club.”

Daniel had an aim to finish in 2hrs 30mins, but a toilet stop put paid to that. However, it was still a successful days work for the talent.

“As the miles went by the support was incredible from the general public cheering and clapping; club members, friends and family shouting ‘come on Shaftesbury,’ ‘come on Dan;’ it gave me a feeling of elation and I felt really good,” he added. “As I approached the finish the atmosphere was truly electric and spurred me on for an extremely strong finish overtaking a further two people leading to the finish.”

Garden City Runner Mark Dickinson came home in 65th in 2hrs 31mins 13 secs.