INVERCLYDE international athlete Bill Stoddart’s record-breaking exploits around Britain and the continent are an inspiration to all runners.

Sadly, the 83-year-old is now unable to run because of illness, but Inverclyde Community Development Trust’s Dutch Gable House team have done a first-class job of mounting an exhibition to his career.

A 15-minute film and display of pictures have been compiled with Bill’s wife, Betty, who is justly proud of her husband’s outstanding achievements at home and abroad.

I first met Bill when writing stories about the inaugural 1981 Inverclyde Marathon, where he recorded one of his proudest victories in two hours 27 minutes 53 seconds — only 20 seconds outside the world record for his age.

That was my first marathon. I remember shouting encouragement to him as he flew by after reaching one of the turning points miles ahead of me.

He didn’t hear a word. His face was set in utter concentration as he hunted down the leaders with absolute determination.

Bill was known as ‘The Captain’ to the countless runners he helped with advice about training and nutrition.

Lesser mortals often joined in for part of his daily training sessions in Battery Park, and always picked up useful tips.

The fact that he didn’t start running seriously until his 30s must be an encouragement to those who think they may be too old to take up the sport.

Let’s hope Bill’s well-deserved exhibition will motivate many to lace up their trainers.