Zoë Conville
Thousands of runners took part in the Leicester Marathon and Half-Marathon last Sunday, October 26.
More than 3000 people took part in both events, with competitors travelling from all over the country to race.
Claire Brown, 20, of Harrow Road, ran the half-marathon for Diabetes UK.
She said: “I can’t believe I finished a half-marathon. I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone who donated, I’m so glad I reached my target of £200.
“It was great fun but I don’t advise anyone to run anywhere ever again. I can walk today but tomorrow might be a different story.”
Both the marathon and half-marathon started in Victoria Park and from there the routes snaked in and out of Leicester city centre and the surrounding villages.
Streets along the route were shut for six hours whilst the event took place.
Every street was lined with supporters cheering on family, friends and strangers as they passed by.
Kishan Manek, 21, of Heathley Park, stopped on his way to work to offer encouragement to competitors as they ran through the Highcross centre.
He said: “The drummers were certainly drumming up everyone’s spirits on what was such a cold day.
“The age range of people taking part is so diverse. It’s really made me question why I didn’t sign up. I was at work but that’s not a good enough answer.
“I’d definitely like to take part next time.”
The marathon and half marathon take place every year in Leicester in the autumn time.
For more information on how to sign up or volunteer at next year’s Leicester marathon and half- marathon visit leicestermarathon.org.uk
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