THE Brighton Marathon will go ahead without supporters on the starting line, organisers have confirmed.

The swell of runners and well-wishers gathering in Preston Park, Brighton has become one of the defining sights of the event, but coronavirus concerns mean there will be a “runner-only” area in the park at the start of the race.

There will also be no baggage drop service in Preston Park and instead all runners will have to drop off their kit bags at least one day before the event for collection at the finish line.

The marathon’s notoriously fast and flat course however has not changed, meaning runners will still pass by some of the city’s most historic venues, including the Brighton Pavilion and the Palace Pier.

Organisers say that despite many coronavirus restrictions being lifted, the wellbeing of runners is their main concern.

A spokesman said: “The wellbeing of our participants, staff and community is of the utmost importance to us.

“We have therefore set out a number of key measures and changes that will be implemented this year, to mitigate any Covid-19 associated risk.

“Since March last year we have been part of a working group called MSO liaising with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, Sport England and Public Health England, to find a way for mass participation running events to come back and operate safely.

“Please be assured that these measures will not diminish your Brighton Marathon weekend experience.

“Many of the amendments will serve to improve the running experience.

“We kindly ask for your understanding and cooperation, so that ultimately we can all enjoy a fantastic weekend of running and celebration together, in our amazing city of Brighton and Hove.”

The 26.2-mile race was cancelled last year as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

It will now go ahead on September 12, 17 months after the event was originally scheduled to take place.

The last time it took place in 2019, an estimated 17,500 runners and 150,000 spectators took part.

The 2022 event will take place on April 10.

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