Big hearted sponsors helped spur Records Manager Phil Astley on when he ran his very first marathon at the weekend.
The 39-year-old who works at the University of Aberdeen received so much support from family, friends and work colleagues that he more than doubled his fundraising target when he successfully completed the Baxters Loch Ness Marathon.
Phil initially hoped to raise £1,000 for the National Autistic Society to thank them for the support they gave when his five-year-old young son Andrew was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome two years ago.
But the father-of-three easily surpassed his target and has so far raised more than £2,100 and funds are still coming in.
Said Phil who completed the race in 3 hrs 29 minutes 25 seconds – which was 35 seconds inside his target time: "I had a fantastic day on Sunday running through stunning scenery under a clear blue sky.
"But the best aspect of the day was that thanks to the incredible generosity of so many people more than £2,100 has been raised for the National Autistic Society which is just fantastic.
"When I started out on this fundraising effort I thought I would be lucky to make even half that amount so I am incredibly delighted with the support I have received. I can't thank everyone enough."
Despite a few aches and pains after the 26.2 miles, Phil's not putting away his running shoes. He added: "I'm having a rest until next Sunday and then I'm doing the Aviemore Half Marathon."
You can still sponsor Phil at: http://www.justgiving.com/phil_and_nessie
* One of Phil's training partners was Patrick McFall from the University's Communications Team who ran the marathon in 3 hrs 8 mins.