A NEWPORT runner is hoping to achieve the unusual feat of finishing last at the city's half marathon run on Sunday.

Runner Maxine Rhodes, from Baneswell, will be unmistakeable wearing an enormous daffodil headdress as she brings up the rear in the Admiral City of Newport Half Marathon on St David's Day.

The 47-year-old accomplished runner and part-time receptionist at St David’s Hospice Care day centre in Malpas will be the very last one home at The Riverfront on the day as she is the official back marker.

Ms Rhodes said: “My role is to ensure no one gets left behind. A half marathon is a long way for some people. Remember 13.1 miles can be a real struggle at times so I am there to provide guidance, support and aid should anyone need it. I also signal to the marshals that the race is finished and that they can go home!”

Ms Rhodes, a coach within a group called RUNNewport which provides free, fun and social running fitness for everyone in Newport, says she also provides a shoulder for strugglers.

“There are times when runners feel that they can’t go on and every runner is different," she said. "Some go very quiet and just need you to keep with them. Others will stop and will need some sort of medical assessment, we call the experts for that. While others require a cuddle, a motivational talking to or simply a challenge, such as 'let’s run to the next lamp post'.

“You have to be sensitive to the individual and it helps if you know why they are running. Many are doing it to raise money for our service and in memory of a loved one. Reminding them of their original goal can help too.”

But what’s it like having to run the entire half marathon with a huge daffodil on your head? Ms Rhodes smiles: “If it’s a cold day with lots of walking, it’s lovely to wear a hat, so why not a daffodil? We are St David’s Hospice Care after all and it will be on St David’s Day this year. In any case, it could be worse; I could have to run as a leek!”

The Admiral City of Newport Half Marathon in aid of St David’s Hospice Care is on Sunday, March 1. The event starts from Westgate Square at 9am and finishes at The Riverfront.