Usk County Councillor Tony Kear is turning his recovery from injury into an opportunity to give something back to the local community as he prepares for an ambitious challenge.

Tony is aiming to run the 2027 London Marathon to mark his 60th birthday, but after developing gluteal tendinopathy he has had to rethink how he trains. Rather than stopping altogether, he has taken up “plogging” – the increasingly popular activity of walking or jogging while collecting litter.

Gluteal tendinopathy is an overuse or degenerative condition affecting the hip abductor tendons (gluteus medius and minimus). It causes chronic lateral hip pain that often radiates down the thigh and makes it difficult to walk, climb stairs, or sleep on the affected side

The approach allows him to remain active during his rehabilitation while helping to keep Usk and the surrounding villages clean and attractive.

“Recovering from gluteal tendinopathy has taught me the importance of listening to my body,” said Tony. “Plogging is a fantastic way to stay active without overloading the injury, and it feels good to know every walk is also making a positive difference to our community.”

Tony hopes to gradually build his fitness over the coming months before returning to regular running as part of his marathon preparation.

He is also encouraging others to get involved, whether by taking up walking, running or simply picking up litter while out enjoying the countryside.

“As councillors we often talk about community pride, but everyone can play a part,” he said. “Taking a litter picker on your daily walk costs nothing and can make a real difference. If more of us did it, our towns and villages would be even more welcoming places to live and visit.”

Tony is a member of Caerleon Running Club, which has an active Usk group. The group meets every Friday evening for a friendly 5km run, setting off from the Lines Brew Co. in Usk. The sessions welcome runners of all abilities, from beginners looking to improve their fitness to experienced runners training for longer events.

“The support from fellow runners has been brilliant,” Tony added. “It’s a friendly group and there’s no pressure. Whether your goal is to complete your first 5km or, like me, work towards a marathon, everyone is encouraged.”

Plogging, which originated in Sweden, has become increasingly popular across the UK as people look for ways to improve both their own wellbeing and the environment. The combination of walking or jogging with regular bending and stretching to collect litter provides gentle functional exercise while helping to keep public spaces tidy.

Tony hopes to be back running longer distances later this year before beginning a structured marathon training programme for the 2027 London Marathon.

“I know there is still a long road ahead,” he said. “But if I can celebrate my 60th birthday by crossing the finish line in London, while helping keep Monmouthshire looking its best along the journey, that would make every mile worthwhile.”