ORGANISERS of the Chester Marathon have added another award to their trophy cabinet.

The MBNA-sponsored event scored first place in its category at the National Running Awards held at the O2 Arena in London.

City-based race organisers Active Leisure Events picked up the top award for the UK’s best Marathon fending off serious competition from other events across the country.

Joint Race Organiser Chris Hulse said: “We put on our events for first-time runners, seasoned runners, elites and everyone in-between to help enable people to achieve something they didn’t think was possible.

“This award has come from the runners themselves which makes it extra special for us. Over the years the event has won a number of awards, however, this one was extra special due to the number of votes received and huge support from our runners.”

Since receiving the award there has been a spike in entries. The organisers predict that the 2018 event will have a record field and may sell out in advance of race day on Sunday, October 7.

Chris added: “A huge thank you has to go to our lead sponsor MBNA, our associate sponsors, event delivery partners, our amazing volunteer team who give up their spare time and everyone else who has contributed to this event. Without them this simply wouldn’t have been possible.”

For more information on the 2018 MBNA Chester Marathon on Sunday 7 October visit http://www.activeleisureevents.co.uk/marathon