AN AYR schoolteacher has raised more than £2,100 to buy vital sports equipment after completing his first half marathon in two decades.

Paul Macfarlane, who is employed at Southcraig School, ran more than 21 kilometres around Glasgow in the Great Scottish Run at the weekend to help fund the purchase of extra sports equipment to benefit pupils.

He explained: “I’ve been working at Southcraig for almost two years in different roles, and I have a real passion for PE and sport.

“I felt like I could help fund-raise for some equipment that the school and pupils could do with, so I decided to do the half marathon.

“I want to get pupils the best things possible so they are able to experience a variety of sports at a young age.”

The 39-year-old had not attempted a half marathon in around 20 years but admits he was delighted with his efforts on the day.

Paul said: "I'm really pleased with how it went, two hours was the secondary target that I wanted to get under.

"I had a very good start up the hill out of George Square and managed to stay with the two hour pacer for as long as possible.

"I pushed on for the final few kilometres and put on a sprint finish, so I smashed the two hours which was really rewarding.

"The crowds were just amazing and the atmosphere was fantastic, with my family at the start and finish lines which was lovely."

Paul has thanked those who generously donated to his fund-raiser, with more than £2,100 raised to buy vital equipment for pupils to use.

He added: "I'm absolutely delighted to raise that amount, I have to say a massive thank you to everyone that's donated.

"My wife and family have been talking to everyone they know, and pulling in donations from all over the place. 

"Obviously the families and teachers at the school have been amazing, as have the members of Forehill Bowling Club and my wife's slimming world groups."