A FORMER soldier this morning completed an incredible 18 marathons in 18 days.

Ultra-fit Dave Moretta, 27, was given a welcome home hug by his sons George, aged two-and-a-half, and one-year-old Harry, after finishing the epic feat outside Blackburn Cathedral.

The Ribchester endurance runner was spurred on in his bid by the memories of the 18 Lancashire soldiers who have lost their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan.

He served with five of them and was a childhoood friend of Marine David Fairbrother, who was killed in action in Helmand Province in September 2011.

Dave, who works as a part-time lifeguard at Marl Pits Leisure Centre in Rawtenstall, was given a motorcycle escort by the Royal British Legion Riders Branch along Darwen Street.

Later he said: “It’s been a difficult challenge but I’ve been lucky enough to have fantastic support along the way from my family and friends.”