AN iconic symbol, designed by a local university student, has been lighting the way at the head of an epic marathon across 14 states and four different time zones in America.

Jon Parlby, 25, from Saltash, a student at Plymouth University, is the designer of a special baton which so far has been carried by more than 2,000 runners in the non-stop One Run For Boston.

The marathon, which started out from Los Angeles on June 7, and ends in Boston on Sunday, has raised thousands of dollars for the One Fund For Boston, set up by the city's mayor, to help the victims and families most seriously affected by the marathon bombings on April 15.

Jon is flying out to Boston to present his baton, which will have been carried in the relay for 3,300 miles, to the organiser of the Boston Marathon, Dave McGilliv-ray.

Jon, who is studying 3D product design, said: 'It is fantastic to be involved in such an event, as it is a great cause that has support right across the world.'

The One Run For Boston is the brainchild of running friends Kate Treleaven, Danny Bent and Jamie Hay, all from the UK.

Danny said: 'Jon designed the baton to look like a lily, a symbol of sympathy, passion and hope. It is perfect for One Run for Boston, showing the solidarity among runners while we remember those most affected by the blast.

'It will be kept by the Boston Marathon organisers so it will continue to act as a symbol of national and international support.'