WHEN Swindon runner Michael Beard crossed the finish line of the Boston Marathon he was met with cheers and applause.

But just over an hour later two explosions rocked the event killing at least three people and injuring 150 others.

His family were left frantically trying to find out if he was safe as reports of the devastation came through media channels.

Michael, 40, of Walcot, who works for Zurich Insurance, is a regular runner who takes part in a number of marathons every year. He completed the Boston Marathon in just under three hours.

His younger brother George, 20, said: “I was watching Sky Sports news when it came up.

“I told my mum and then we contacted my dad who was working in London.

“After about 15 panicky minutes we managed to get hold of him and he told us he was okay.

“The bombs exploded about an hour after he had finished. By the time he heard about the attack he was on a train to New York, where he was spending the night.

“It was definitely a worrying time for us and we were very relieved to hear from him.”

“The attack was awful. Michael is a serious runner, he completed it in a good time, which was very fortunate.”

Michael is a runner with the Swindon Shin Splints. The group posted a message on Facebook following the devastating news which read: “Shocking images of the terrible tragedy at the Boston marathon and our thoughts are with those families.

“Our own Mike Beard, who competed yesterday, is thankfully safe and sound.”

Other Swindon runners have condemned the bombings but say it will not stop them from racing in the London Marathon on Sunday.

Questions have been raised about whether the event should go ahead due to safety fears but the decision to carry on with the race has been supported by those taking part from Swindon.

“If you cancel the race then you give the terrorists what they want,” said Giulie Vitale Cumper, of West Swindon, who is taking part in the weekend’s race in aid of Open Doors.

She has previously completed the Boston Marathon.

“Of course the bombing had made me think. It was terrible what happened but I will still be running on Sunday,” she said.

“I am most concerned for the spectators. As runners you need the support of the spectators but they obviously have to be safe.

“I have asked my husband not to come but he has the same attitude as me and will still be coming to support me.

“It was absolutely shocking to watch it on the television. It was very close to home as I have been to all the places that were bombed.

“Last year my husband was standing exactly where the bomb went off. I also bought some of the equipment from the sports shop close by. It was awful and our thoughts are with everyone out there.”