Marathon without prosthetic limbs

Richard Whitehead says he excels in sport without his artificial limbs

A Nottingham man is training to run the New York Marathon - without the aid of his prosthetic legs.

Richard Whitehead, a 28-year-old swimming teacher from Colwick, was born with no legs below the knees.

He plans to run the event in November wearing specially-cushioned shoes fitted where his prosthetic limbs are normally attached.

Mr Whitehead hopes to increase awareness of disability and raise money for Macmillan Cancer Research.

Although this will be his first marathon, he already plays a key role in other sports.

He is captain of Nottinghamshire's disabled cricket team and has been chosen along with two team-mates to represent England.

He also plays sledge hockey for Great Britain and is preparing for the 2006 Paralympics.

Mr Whitehead said: "My disability is more visual when my legs are off and I want to show that disabled people can play sport.

"I'm more mobile without my legs on anyway.

"My prosthetic limbs are there to help in my social life and working life, but I excel in sport without them."