STEVE Male admitted he was pushed all the way by Bevereley’s James Pearson as he won his first marathon title.

And the 46-year-old, who runs Fit-2-Run in Abingdon, said the local support spurred him on to achieve his ultimate ambition.

He said: “I was fifth here two years ago, so obviously winning it was brilliant, especially as it was my home town race.

“One of my friends told me it was probably one of the tightest finishes ever in the Abingdon Marathon, and so I’m delighted.

“It was my major goal for this year.”

Male edged a sprint finish inside Tilsley Park, but said it was impossible to shake off Pearson, who was third last year.

“We had been talking to each other a bit out on the course, and we had decided to help each other along early in the race.

“Obviously the last couple of miles becomes a bit more competitive.

“I believe he led at 22 miles last year, but then got reeled in, so I had hoped he would fade.

“But he was really strong, and gave me a bit of focus and incentive.

“I think James was shocked by the support I had, but I told him afterwards, it was my home town!

“James knew about my track speed, so he didn’t really fancy a sprint finish.

“To win it with a personal best just made it extra special for me.”