Autistic athlete smashes two world records

An athlete has become the fastest and youngest man with an intellectual disability to complete a marathon.

Angus Leckonby, who is autistic and lives with verbal dyspraxia, broke the two Guinness World Records during the London Marathon on Sunday.

The 22-year-old, from Octon near Driffield, East Yorkshire, completed the long-distance running event in three hours, 36 minutes and 38 seconds.

His father, Matthew Leckonby, said he hoped their story would help other people whose children also have disabilities.

As a keen swimmer, Angus took part in the Olympic and Paralympic swimming trials last year and wanted a different challenge, according to Matthew.

His training hit a snag when, just a week before the marathon, he woke up with a limp and had to rest his knee.

He underwent physiotherapy and received clearance to take part in the event with just three days to go.

Angus said he loved running on what he described as his "big day" and said he would like to do the London Marathon again next year.

Cheered on by his sister Charlotte, Angus made it to the finish line in record time before fainting.

Matthew said he gave him "a big sweaty hug" and something to eat and drink after a medic had checked him over.

He said he was "proud to bits" of what his son has achieved and that their story had resonated with other parents looking for inspiration for their children.

Angus has exceeded his target and raised nearly £11,000 for the Special Olympics and said he intended to continue fundraising.

He is planning to take part in more events including a triathlon and a swim.

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