A MAN with a learning disability ran the virtual London Marathon to help combat the stigma around disabilities - and prove his school bullies wrong.

Jamie Dancyger, 35, from Droitwich, had the last laugh on fellow pupils who mocked him by becoming a Special Olympic medal-winning runner. He most recently also ran a marathon route in his local area as part of this year’s virtual 40th Race on October 4.

Jamie experienced bullying when he was at school and was taunted by some other students during PE lessons for the way that he ran.

He said: “I didn’t like the way people in the lessons were. They said horrible and nasty things. It made me feel not confident and not want to take part in things.

“The Special Olympics wasn’t something that I thought would happen when I was at school. It was better for me because I had more confidence in myself. I made some new friends and as the years went on, I did more competitions and won medals, and met more people. I really enjoyed it.”

Everything changed when Jamie, who was encouraged by his father – a retired learning disability nurse who volunteered as a coach at a local Special Olympics group – to try out at for his local Special Olympics group.

During his time with the Special Olympics, Jamie represented his club and region in the 800m, 1500m, 3000m and 5000m races. He also represented the Special Olympics GB at the World Games in Athens in 2011, where he picked up two silver medals.

Jamie said running was a lifeline for him and, with the support of his mum, Fran, he was able to continue his training with Fran cycling alongside him while he ran.

Jamie hoped that by running the virtual 40th Race he will prove people wrong and show the world what people with a learning disability can achieve with the right support.

The money he raised will go towards funding Mencap’s life-changing programmes, which aim to tackle stigma and help people with a learning disability lead happy and healthy lives.

To support Jamie, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/JamieDancyger1

Due to Covid, there was a closed-circuit route through St James’s Park for elite runners this year with all other runners running, jogging or walking their own 26.2 miles route over a 24-hour period.