STEVE EDWARDS’ preparation for his bid to break the V50+ record for running seven marathons on consecutive days in March met with a major setback when he was injured in a road accident before Christmas.

Edwards, 50, was cycling home on a country road to Moreton-in-Marsh when he was blinded by the full beams of a motorist travelling in the opposite direction, hit a verge and was catapulted over his handlebars.

Edwards suffered a painful rib injury but seemed more hurt that the mystery motorist did not bother to stop.

Edwards said: “Fortunately, I am now back in training despite the fact that my ribs aren't 100 per cent but I'm told it could take up to 12 weeks before they are fully recovered.

“However, it's important that I try to maintain the mileage throughout the winter.

“The seven-in-seven challenge is a very important event for me as I'm hoping to raise much-needed funds for the local Kate's Home Nursing charity who provide specialist palliative home care for terminally ill patients in the Gloucestershire area.”

Edwards enjoyed another fine year in 2013, his first full season as a Vet 50-year-old athlete.

He said: “I've managed to run 37 marathons averaging 3hr 15min 44sec, and to record no fewer than 24 wins in my V50 age category.

“This has taken my overall marathon total to 613, with another world record along the way for reaching 600 with the fastest average finish time.

“In June, I was completely surprised to win on my first attempt at a back-to-back double marathon in a one-day event, mainly because I was the oldest competitor in the field.

“Then, in October, I was again surprised but extremely pleased to record three sub 3:15 finishes in a triple marathon event over three consecutive days, finishing second overall.”

To support Edwards’ chosen charity log on to www.justgiving.com/teamedwards1000.