On weekdays he’s the mild mannered check out operator who cheerfully scans your bag of Kale and tins of baked beans, but at the weekend it’s a different story.
That’s because local resident Jacob Snickers hides a secret, which SomersetCive can now exclusively reveal – Jacob and Smalltown Superhero Runningman are one and the same.
For years residents of Smalltown have spotted Runningman pounding the streets in search of fund raising opportunities, leading many to speculate on his true identity. Wherever there’s a running event and a chance to gain sponsorship Runningman is always ready and willing to drop whatever he’s doing to take part.
“I have now completed a total of 94 marathons and raised over £29,400 for charity.” Jacob said. “A lot of people have commented that I must have some sort of superpower to run this many marathons and it’s true that, when I slip my shorts on over my tracksuit bottoms and don my vest with my race number emblazoned on the front, I do gain extra strength, but really it’s all down to the training.”
So the next time you are stood in a queue at Tescoes don’t be surprised if the man serving you suddenly upsticks and leaves you holding your shopping basket. It’s because Jacob has heard the distant sound of a starting pistol and has rushed off to the assistance of some people in need of charitable help.