It may have been raining on Sunday - but that didn’t stop Paisley marathon runner Dylan Glynn pounding the streets of the town for 26 miles in aid of a much-loved local charity.
The 32-year-old completed the virtual London Marathon in aid of Paisley charity the Star Project.
On his momentous journey through the streets of the town, Dylan ran past many key sites that have links with the Star Project.
Places such as the charity’s base in Wallace Street, Fountain Gardens, Paisley Men’s Shed, St Mirren Park, Glenburn Community Library and areas linked to the Paisley City of Culture bid were all on the route.
Dylan even had support from community members throughout the race, in particular, Star activities coordinator Heather Kay - who followed him along the route the whole day.
Heather kept everyone updated on his progress by posting live videos on the charity’s Facebook page.
She even donned a panda costume and took part herself when he reached St Mirren Park.
Dylan, who has never run a marathon before, said the support from the public kept him going.
He said: “It was just so amazing to see everyone as I was going round.
“The fact that Star put so much effort in it meant so much to me.
“There were people putting up banners, people wearing T-shirts with my name on and cheering for me.
“It was really emotional. When I got to Fountain Gardens and saw all the people I was so shocked as I have never experienced that before.
“Having all that support definitely kept me going.
He added: “One of the highlights was when we got to St Mirren Park, that was just fantastic and Heather was just brilliant the whole day.”
Dylan initially thought the race had been cancelled, but told the Express he was delighted when marathon organisers decided to run a virtual event this year, meaning he could run around his home town.
His efforts managed to raise more than £2,000 for the Star Project, which has helped thousands of people in the Renfrewshire community through a number of projects such as the Community Fridge, Chin Up, Paisley Men’s Shed and Tuesday Group - which supports parents with young children.
Star has also spent months helping those most in need get access to food and support throughout the pandemic.
Heather and the rest of the team at Star are over the moon with the success of the day, with Heather posting live updates on social media to keep everyone updated on Dylan’s progress.
Heather added: “It was a phenomenal day. The team were all tired the next day but it was so worth it.
“We’re incredibly proud of Dylan, he was incredible.
“Our community members are so proud of him too.”
