A Glusburn man successfully completed the gruelling London Marathon on Sunday -- and then announced he was giving away his coveted race medal.

Ralph Cooper and wife Carol both ran in the world-famous event to raise funds in tribute to a paralysed teenager. Afterwards Ralph said he was presenting his medal to the young person who had inspired their effort.

Paul Jones -- a neighbour on the Old Hall estate -- has been undergoing treatment at Pinderfields Hospital, Wakefield, since November when he was found lying severely injured in the road at Steeton.

"He is great lad and despite his injuries has remained cheerful throughout," said Ralph, 59, who lectures in computer-aided design at Keighley College. "I wanted to give him the medal as a memento."

He travelled to Wakefield on Wednesday afternoon to hand over the prized medal. Ralph and Carol both finished the marathon in around five hours and they hope to raise £3,000 through sponsorship for the Spinal Injuries Association (SIA).

"I felt mentally strong and managed to run for the whole duration," said Ralph. "The atmosphere is fantastic and the crowd really lifts you. We ran together for 22 miles and then finished just a few minutes apart."

Paul -- a former pupil of South Craven School, at Cross Hills -- says the couple's efforts have inspired him to tackle the marathon wheelchair race in two years' time.

"I think it is absolutely brilliant of Ralph and Carol to do this and I would like to thank everyone who supported and sponsored them," he said. "It means a lot to me."

Paul had begun work as an apprentice engineer at Wask RMF, in Keighley, just six months before his life-shattering accident. He was attending Keighley College on day release.

His parents Jean and Ken say that despite his ordeal -- and a warning from doctors that he will not walk again -- Paul has remained resilient.

The 18-year-old is now spending three days a week at home.

She also paid tribute to Ralph and Carol for their efforts, and thanked all the businesses which donated prizes for a fundraising night at Keighley Golf Club. The event raised over £500.

Donations to the SIA can be paid directly into a special account -- named Paul Jones SIA -- at any branch of Barclays Bank. The account number is 20041262, and the sort code 20-45-14.

Marathon report page 5