Adults, children and a dog took part in Brighton Marathon's mile race for the first time in the event's history.

People of all ages limbered up in Preston Park ahead of the Brighton Miles race before the marathon tomorrow.

The Argus: Crowds cheer on a boy taking part in the Brighton Miles on a trike for the Whoopsadaisy charityCrowds cheer on a boy taking part in the Brighton Miles on a trike for the Whoopsadaisy charity (Image: Andrew Gardner / The Argus)

Medals were handed out to finishers by Paralympian David Weir. He said: "It is very important that everyone is included in events like the Brighton Miles. Nobody should feel like they can't get out and do something and a mile is a great way for someone to start activity.

"It was great being here today seeing so many people enjoying themselves."

The new event, formerly known as the Mini Mile, marked the start of the Brighton Marathon Weekend - now organised by London Marathon Events after Grounded Events went into administration in late 2022.

The Argus: One of the first adults to take part in the Brighton Miles makes the final dash towards the finish lineOne of the first adults to take part in the Brighton Miles makes the final dash towards the finish line (Image: Andrew Gardner / The Argus)

It was previously only open to school-aged children, however this year event bosses have introduced new categories for adults and families.

Beyond the mile-long track, community organisations such as Brighton Table Tennis Club, Nam Yang Community Club and VYD Football provided have-a-go sessions in the park.

Among those taking part for the first time was 37-year-old Anita Mandane, who travelled all the way from Leicester with her toy poodle Jack and sister Bagui.

"It feels amazing," said Anita. "Especially to cross the line with Jack for the first time. He got a medal as well so we are both happy - and we finished without stopping."

The Argus: Anita crosses the finish line with her dog JackAnita crosses the finish line with her dog Jack (Image: Andrew Gardner / The Argus)

Charlotte Mahon, 38 from Kent, is also running the full marathon tomorrow but took part in the Brighton Miles with her husband and two children.

She said: "It is really nice that we are all able to take part in an event like this as a family and be all together."

The Brighton Marathon continues with the BM10K and Brighton Marathon tomorrow morning. The 10k race starts on Hove lawns at 8.45am and the Marathon in Preston Park at 9.45am.

Both events finish on Hove Lawns, with the first marathon finishers expected to arrive at 12.15am.