Anthony is sent on his way by son Joe, watched by partner Suzi Austin and race director Helen Baker. Picture: Jon Guegan (01060477)

FORMER Jersey Evening Post assistant editor Anthony Lewis, who suffered a massive stroke almost three years ago, set off from the Weighbridge this morning on the first five miles of the Standard Chartered Jersey Marathon.

Watched by his partner Suzi Austin, race director Helen Baker and a band of supporters, Anthony was sent on his way by his young son, Joe.

The challenge he has set himself is to walk five miles of the course today and tomorrow, five miles again on Thursday and Friday, and three miles on Saturday and Sunday.

He is aiming to finish at 1 pm on marathon day, when it is hoped that there will be a large number of people at the Weighbridge to cheer him home.

Anthony is raising money for the Stroke Association in Jersey and is wearing the number 120 to indicate the number of people who suffer a stroke in the Island each year.

If anyone wishes to contribute to the charity, they can do so at www.justgiving.com/anthonys-marathon-walk or contact his partner, Suzi Austin, on 726048.

• Anthony’s story and full details about the marathon will be published in a supplement with the JEP tomorrow.