Paignton runner with just 5% vision preparing for London Marathon

A new short documentary telling the story of local runner and musician Phil Harrison will be screened at the Projection Room next weekend.

A short documentary about a Paignton runner with severe sight loss will be screened at a special fundraising event later this month.

The film, An Exercise In Perspective, will be shown at the Projection Room in Paignton on Saturday, 21 March, with screenings at 2pm and 5pm.

The documentary follows the story of local resident Phil Harrison, who has less than five per cent vision but is preparing to run the 2026 London Marathon in support of the Royal National Institute of Blind People.

Born fully sighted, Phil lost vision in his left eye following an injury before later developing cancer in his right eye. He now lives with severe sight loss and uses an artificial iris.

Despite the challenges, Phil has set himself the goal of completing his first marathon while raising money and awareness for people living with visual impairments.

Away from running, Phil is also the frontman of punk band Social Security, whose music provides the soundtrack to the documentary.

The experimental mixed-media film offers an immersive look into Phil’s life, capturing his energetic and determined personality as he trains for the marathon and continues performing with the band.

Following each screening, audiences will have the chance to take part in a question-and-answer session with Phil and the film’s director, Reuben Armstrong, giving attendees a deeper insight into the making of the documentary and the story behind it.

Organisers say the event aims to raise awareness of sight loss while celebrating Phil’s inspiring journey and determination.