HEREFORDSHIRE based javelin thrower Daniel Pembroke has broken the European record for F-13, throwing a mammoth 66.75m in Poland.

The 29-year-old, previously an able-bodied thrower, currently lives in Bullingham, Herefordshire, having originally lived in West London, writes Chris Stonadge

Pembroke was diagnosed with RP (Retinitis Pigmentosa) at a young age but was told it would not affect him until late teenage years and early 20s.

He began throwing a javelin at secondary school, before joining a local club.

He would break several school records before being recognised nationally and internationally, culminating in an appearance at the 2011 IAAF World U20 Championships in Moncton, Canada, where he would finish 11th.

After not qualifying for the Olympics due to an elbow injury, he took time out for years to travel. After returning to England, he was classified as an F-13, meaning he could compete in Para events due to his eyesight deterioration.

“The win in Poland is the greatest feeling I’ve had in my career – able or non-able bodied," Pembroke said.

"Especially as in athletics you do not often get second chances, I want to break more records.” Pembroke is set to compete at this summer’s Paralympics.