London Marathon organisers take over Brighton Marathon

This follows news that the current organisers of the Brighton Marathon, Grounded Events, are going into administration. 

Councillors have agreed a plan that will see London Marathon Events (LME) given a licence to deliver the Brighton Marathon event from 2023. 

The deal will be for three years in the first instance, with an option on an extra two years at Brighton and Hove City Council’s discretion. 

• READ MORE: London Marathon organiser looking to take over Brighton Marathon

Legal and financial details of the formal licence agreement will now be negotiated by senior council officers. 

Organisers Grounded Events were still accepting 2023 entries for £80 until November 7 despite filing a notice of intention to appoint administrators on November 1.

On November 11 Grounded Events confirmed to the council that it would not be able to pay debts owed to participants and businesses relating to the 2022 event.  

Councillors met today to discuss the event's future

This came after months of them saying they would be able to do so. 

The company owes the council around £150,000.

The co-chairman of the council’s tourism, equalities, communities and culture committee, Councillor Martin Osborne, said: “The Brighton Marathon these days has a national and international reputation.

"It is hugely important as a fundraising event for charities, and to bring money into the local economy. I’m pleased that we have been able to agree a way for it to take place next year. 

“We’ve had months of what have turned out to be false reassurances and broken promises from Grounded Events. I am appalled that they have left so many charities, local people and businesses – and of course the council – out of pocket. 

“London Marathon Events has experience of running one of the world’s biggest marathons. I’m sure the 2023 Brighton Marathon will be a massive success. I believe event has a bright future and will go from strength to strength in the coming years.”