A nuclear plant operator is taking time out of his busy 84-hour week to train for the London Marathon next month.

With barely a moment’s free time, Paul Maynard, 48, of Mongeham Road, is smashing the treadmill in Tides Leisure Centre in Deal to ready himself for the 26-mile endurance test.

He said that inches have been lost from his waistline, but more importantly, he has managed to hit the 13-mile mark during his 16-week training plan.

Paul, a father-of-two, is also having his hair permed just days beforehand, which he has been encouraged to do by a work colleague who has pledged £300.

“The guy at work said to get permed, and then I thought why not, it is a lot of money and the perm will grow out,” he said.

“A few people have asked if I’d get my hair dyed pink when I have it permed.

“My reply is that I would if they matched my workmate’s donation.

“They inevitably clam up then, but the offer always stands if anyone cares to take it up!”

He hopes that the donations will continue to flood in over the next few weeks, and is aiming to raise thousands for two causes.

A total of 80% will be given to The Stroke Association, a charity close to his heart, after losing his mother to a stroke in 2005.

The remaining 20% to the April Lodge Guinea Pig Rescue in Eastry, where his wife Nicky volunteers.

The first-time runner said he was astounded when his application for the marathon was accepted and is aiming for a five-hour completion time.

He said: “I just know if I don’t put the miles in it is going to hurt even more, but I am really confident I will complete it.

“I will crawl through it if I have to, because I don’t plan to do this marathon ever again.”

The self-confessed beer fan said he will be staying dry in the five weeks leading up to the marathon date.

He will, however, hotfoot it to the pub after his run to toast the achievement with family and friends on the day.

Paul and Nicky will also be unwinding in a spa therapy day at Bannatyne’s in Broadstairs afterwards.

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