Some of us will find the smallest excuse not to go out for a run. 

But for one man looking to complete the London Marathon, not even cancer will stop him. 

Philip Longwell, 53, was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer last year and, after recent consultations, has been advised by an oncologist he could have a year left to live.

However, Mr Longwell, who lives in Wells-next-the-Sea, is undeterred and has set his mind on running next year's London Marathon in April in a bid to help raise awareness of the illness.

Philip Longwell is determined to run next year's London Marathon.Philip Longwell is determined to run next year's London Marathon. (Image: Philip Longwell) READ MORE: New event launched for patients to share views on fate of surgery

He said: "It's a bucket list thing. Running the marathon, and listening to 1001 records before I die.

"I got back into running about two years ago but before that it had probably been 30 years since I'd run. 

"Obviously now I have to run with a stoma bag but it's not impossible at all."

Mr Long says he feels "very motivated" to complete the achievement, so much so that he decided to retire from his 20-year teaching career this week to focus his efforts on training.

Philip Longwell's training kit for the race.Philip Longwell's training kit for the race. (Image: Philip Longwell) READ MORE: How has a Norfolk pub fared since opening under new owners?

As part of his preparation for the race, the former teacher recently joined the running group, Runners-next-the-Sea, but training momentum quickly slowed following an emergency operation to correct his detached retina.

As part of his recovery period, doctors have advised less strenuous exercise for the next four weeks.

Mr Longwell said: "Although I can't go straight back into running, I'm still walking as much as I can." 

With eight months to train for the race, Mr Long has said this will be his "biggest physical challenge to date", surpassing his hike up Mount Kilimanjaro in 2007.

His training regime will include completing a 10km race and a half marathon in the lead up to the event.

Mr Long will be running for Macmillan Cancer Support and if you would like to donate to his efforts, you can do so here: https://2025tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/philip-longwell