Two men's Guinness World Record may be in doubt following a mix up.
Martin Pritchard-Howarth and Branwell Spencer, who work in Wirral as doctors, thought they had seized their place in the record books for the fastest marathon runner dressed as a 3D plant - in the men's category - at the London Marathon on April 23.
But their dreams were soon dashed, as Martin and Branwell claimed there was a mix up over "plant names" following a judging mistake.
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Martin said: “Our moment in the sun was short lived as unbeknownst to us an even faster flower named Michael Daniels had crossed the finish line some 20 minutes earlier. But due a name mix up at the finish line by Guinness World Record adjudicators, we were erroneously credited with world record success and taken for official interviews and photos."
Branwell said: “It was good while it lasted. Fantastic to be World Record Holders fastest 3D Plant even if it was just for 24 hours. You cannot take that magic away."
Martin said they even chatted to real record holder Michael prior to the race.
He added: "We actually met and chatted to the real record holder, Michael, in the Guinness World Record registration tent prior to the race start. He is a lovely guy and ran in support of Motor Neurone Disease Association, which had strong family importance for him.
"Amazingly, although not from the Wirral, we discovered Michael was looking for a place in Wallasey, as a member of his family was hoping to move down to the Wirral in the near future."
Martin and Branwell ran the London Marathon in support of charity Scope, a disability charity in England and Wales which campaigns to change negative attitudes about disability, provides direct services, and educates the public.
He said: “We have both had a fantastic time in the run up for the Marathon and all the support we have had for us personally and for Scope. The team at Guinness World Records have been very helpful in the run up to the event and processing applications and were very helpful on the day, sadly this was just an unfortunate mistake but that is just how life is."
The marathon runners congratulated Michael, Martin said: “We are both very pleased for Michael. Congratulations. Well Done. Maybe see you at a florist or horticultural show in the near future.
"We both hope you have not missed out on publicity for your charity or your running success”
Martin and Branwell have raised more than £4,500 for Scope. You can visit their JustGiving Page here. A spokesperson for the Guinness World Records said they have spoken to Martin and Branwell and are currently looking into this and the record titles.
People can sign up for Team Scope London Marathon 2024 places here.
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