A BARNOLDSWICK dentist found himself sharing the limelight with Big Ben as he crossed the finishing line of the London Marathon on Sunday.

Richard Parker completed the 26 mile race in three hours and 42 minutes and raised more than £5,000 for Pendleside Hospice, Burnley.

And his big moment ended up being beamed across the world, and viewed millions of times on social media, as he finished next to fellow runner, Lukas Bates, whose towering Big Ben outfit got stuck on the overheard scoreboard. Lukas, who was attempting to break the world record for a marathon runner dressed as a landmark building, was eventually helped across the line by a race steward.

Richard said: “It was a fairytale finish to be along side Big Ben as he got stuck under the finish canopy after running 26.2 miles , a clip on You Tube and BBC was viewed by thousands so as well as seeing Big Ben they will have witnessed my proud moment too.”

Richard, of the Diamond Smiles Dental Centre, said he had been overwhelmed by the support of friends and patients who had given so generously.

“I finished in three hours, 42 minutes smashing my four hour target swept along by the huge crowds. It was certainly one of the best days of my life and I have memories that will last forever,” he said.

People can still donate to his charity page at: virginmoneygiving.com/Richardparker35