A Penryn footballer who was told he may never run again after a devastating accident at Falmouth Docks completed the Plymouth 10k in under an hour.

In August 2014, Mark 'Simmo' Simmons was crushed by a large steel rack whilst at work, an accident which broke his back, pelvis, arm and leg.

Pinned down by the steel unit, Mark was in immense pain and could hardly breathe, but says thinking of his family and young daughter kept him going.

He spent three months in different hospitals and was unable to walk because of his catastrophic injuries.

He said: "I was lucky; Derriford saved my life and the amazing Orthopedic Team saved my leg from being amputated.

"I was told that it was highly unlikely that I would ever run again. It's been just over four years since the accident and I have taught myself; with the help of Diarmuid from The Devery Practice, to begin to run again.

"It was challenging and I was in agony especially towards the end as my knee was on fire but I wanted to do it for Derriford.

"I felt emotional and proud of myself that I did it, as I never thought I would ever run again."

Mark spent 18 days on Shaugh Ward at Derriford Hospital and now he’s aiming to raise £1,800 for Plymouth Hospitals Charity; £100 for every day he spent on the ward. So far, he’s reached almost £1,000 towards his fundraising target.

“People don’t really know how much a hospital does until they need it”, said Mark. I just want to raise money for the hospital to say ‘thank you’ to all those who took care of me. They really were amazing.”

To find out about his efforts, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/simmo4derriford.