HISTORY was made at the TCS London Marathon as St Helens veteran Andy Reid completed the course to become the first triple amputee to finish the event.
Andy, co‑founder of the Standing Tall Foundation, showed remarkable determination as he completed the 26.2‑mile course, never stopping and never giving up as he pushed on.
The Afghanistan veteran, 49, undertook the challenge to test himself and to raise vital funds to support veterans and members of the wider community facing mental health challenges, addiction, housing difficulties and welfare needs.
He completed the course this evening (Sunday) in the darkness.
The Standing Tall Foundation, the St Helens-based charity which he co-founded, paid tribute to Andy following the historic achievement, saying: “Words truly cannot describe how proud we are of Andy.
"His courage, determination and resilience have inspired so many, proving that no obstacle is too great when you lead with heart and purpose.”
A special tribute was also paid to Andy’s support walker, Ged Mason OBE, executive chairman of the Morson Group, whose encouragement and practical support helped him throughout the marathon.
Supporters from across the country were thanked for helping to make the moment possible, with fundraisers praising the generosity shown during Andy’s journey.
The achievement was described as not just a landmark sporting moment, but an example of how dedication and compassion can make a real difference in the lives of others.
In a message shared on Instagram after the marathon, the Army Benevolent Fund paid tribute to Andy’s achievement, saying: “When Andy set his sights on the London Marathon as his next fundraising challenge for the Army Benevolent Fund and the Standing Tall Foundation, those who know him had no doubt he would give it everything.
“An Afghanistan veteran and triple amputee, Andy has never allowed his injuries to define his limits.
“Supported every step of the 26.2‑mile route by friends and supporters, including his close friend Jed, who carried a chair so Andy could take care of his prosthetics, Andy showed extraordinary determination from start to finish.
“Seeing him cross the finish line and make history as the first triple amputee to complete the London Marathon was truly unforgettable.
“That he achieved this while raising vital funds for soldiers, veterans and their families makes it even more meaningful.
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