Move over, Ernie, Exmouth has a new fastest milkman

Gary Qualter, 56, has entered the 2023 TLS London Marathon and is aiming to become the fastest marathon runner dressed as a milk deliverer (male) category.

Gary is a dad of three who lives in Exmouth and is undertaking the challenge to raise funds for Cancer Research UK in memory of his Mum, Eileen Qualter, who recently died of cancer.

Guinness World Record rules require Gary to run the marathon while wearing an American 1950s style milkman costume and carrying four bottles filled with milk. He must complete the 26.2 mile course in less than four hours to get the world record.

Gary will have a Guinness Wold Record adjudicator at the start and finish of the event to make sure he still has the uniform and four full bottles of milk in his crate. 

Gary is a milkman in real life, too. He has been making doorstep deliveries of milk in traditional glass bottles in Exeter, Exmouth and surrounding areas since November 2000 for company Milk and More.

This will be Gary's second London Marathon. (Image: Gary Qualter)

Gary is keen marathon runner. This will be his 19th marathon overall, and his second time at the London Marathon. 

His other marathon finishes include Berlin, New York, Boston and Chicago. He ran his first London Marathon way back in 1992.

In 2010, He made headlines as the 'Walking Milkman' when he completed a solo, unsupported walk from John o'Groats to Land's End to raise funds for another cancer charity. He successfully arrived at Land's Ends 48 days after leaving John o'Groats having completed a scenic 1,008-mile route.

You may have seen Gary training around the town, running around with a milk carrier filled up with water bottles. He is also planning a 'full dress rehearsal' at a Exmouth Parkrun nearer to the London Marathon date, fit with a crate full of milk. 

This years London Marathon takes place on Sunday, April 23 in the capital. 

Donate to Gary's Justgiving page here - https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/therunningmilkman