Runner David Wyeth, saved from collapse at London Marathon by Matthew Rees: I wouldn't have crossed the line on hands and knees

The marathon runner who nearly collapsed but was saved by a fellow competitor today said he would not have managed to cross the line even "on my hands and knees."

David Wyeth, 35, of the Chorlton Runners, who was running in memory of his uncle, said he needed the help of Matthew Rees, who has been hailed a hero for helping Mr Wyeth over the line at the cost of his finishing place.

Mr Wyeth said he was still working out why he collapsed after “meticulous” preparations.

He said: “For the last mile I knew I was not running in a straight line. I will be interested for the medical team to find out what went wrong. It was probably dehydration.”

He added: “I thought I’d been shown on a big screen somewhere. It wasn’t until later I realised what had happened. I’m quite a private person so it was all a little strange.”

This morning Mr Wyeth posted on his JustGiving page that he was recovering well, and shared an image of him enjoying a pint after the race.

He wrote online: "I'm overwhelmed by your messages of support and the kindness of strangers. Thank you so much for your concern, I'm recovering well."

His fund has soared past its original goal of £1,000 - hitting over £7,000 this morning.

Mr Rees denied he was a hero, saying “I just helped someone out.”

The Swansea-based athlete added: “It was a great event. London showed that despite what happened recently the people come out in force to show how strong London and the UK is.”

The bank worker said it did not cross his mind to run past Mr Wyeth just 200 metres from the finish line even though it would mean a slower finishing time.

The runner said: “It was not a decision. When I saw him struggling that was it, I was going to help him.

“I didn’t want him running 26 miles for a steward to pull him out and not make the final 200 metres. I couldn’t let him not finish.”

Mr Rees was stunned when his phone started beeping moments after crossing the finishing line after his sacrifice was picked up by television cameras.

He said: “It was crazy. When I got to my family they asked me what was going on on social media. I couldn’t even look at my phone.

“It was a manic day and I was glad to get back to the hotel to put my feet up.”

An estimated 800,000 spectators turned out to watch the 37th London Marathon only a month after crowds were deliberately targetted in the Westminster terror attack.