Michael Imperato, a lawyer at Newport-based Watkins and Gunn Solicitors, has successfully run his first marathon.

The 52-year-old, from Cardiff, ran the 2015 Virgin London Marathon in five hours in aid of LOOK, a charity for families with visually impaired children.

Michael, who is one of Wales’ leading lawyers specialising in public, personal injury and education law, has pledged to raise £2,000 for the charity, which is close to his heart.

He said: “I’m aching in parts of my body I didn’t know existed, but the pain is worth it. I’m thrilled to have completed my first marathon. I struggled between miles 15 and 21 but the crowds were amazing. They really spurred me on.

“It was quite a step up from a gentle jog around Roath Park at my age, but when you meet children like I have at LOOK, you realise how important it is to make a difference.

“I know from working with children with special needs how difficult it can be for families to access the support they need and are entitled to. That is why charities such as LOOK are invaluable.”

LOOK was set up in 1991 by Jennifer Bowen, mother of Cardiff-born BBC News Middle East editor Jeremy Bowen.

Charlotte Carson, director of LOOK, said: “We’re very proud of Michael’s success – we knew he could do it. A small charity like LOOK depends on the generosity of people like Michael to continue our work.

“This money will make a big difference to the families of visually impaired children throughout the UK.”

Anyone wishing to sponsor Michael can do so securely through his JustGiving page www.justgiving.com/Michael-Imperato/