The runners set off at the start of the Chester Marathon yesterday
Pink Panther Ian Golding
Runners Michael Howard and James Gregary of MBNA
Race organiser Chris Hulse with brother Tim Hulse, of Chester
Prev | Next
Images: 1 of
4
THOUSANDS of people lined the streets to cheer on 3,000 runners taking part in the Chester Marathon yesterday.
Those taking part in the 26.2-mile race took a route past the town hall, cathedral, Eastgate clock, amphitheatre and into the Cheshire countryside before returning to Chester Racecourse.
Families also took part in the family fun run and many dressed up in an array of weird and wonderful costumes.
More than £500,000 was spent in hotels, restaurants and shops during last year’s event, in which 2,500 runners took part.
Organisers are hoping this year’s event will spell an ever bigger cash injection for the city.
Organiser Chris Hulse said: “Our report shows that runners see the race as an opportunity to visit Chester and stay for the weekend.
“Naturally this is good news for city businesses as marathon entrants book local accommodation and visit city restaurants.
“Many runners bring friends and family along to support them so the economic boost to our city could in fact be much more significant – probably nearer the £1 million mark.
“This is just the third year for the MBNA Chester Marathon, but it is already becoming a favourite race for runners across the UK and we’re sure that its popularity and importance to the local economy will keep on growing.”