What a fantastic event the Flora London Marathon was.

The atmosphere all the way round the course was truly awesome and the crowds are simply amazing.

As we snaked our way around the streets of our capital city, it struck me what a great leveller marathon running is.

It makes no difference what age, colour, creed, gender or profession you are, 26 miles is still 26 miles.

I would like to thank a few people who did their bit to ensure I was able to take part:

Russell the physio at Bodymatters in Steyning for mending this slightly broken runner; Dujna at Steyning Leisure Centre for being such a good personal trainer; The Old Tollgate Hotel in Bramber for their generous gift to the fundraising effort; Shoreham Coasters running group, many of whom were there in person, or in spirit during the run; and, last but by no means least, my partner Tania for enduring the months of sweaty washing and lonesome evenings.

If any of your readers were inspired to take up running after seeing the race or just want to get a bit fitter, look no further than Shoreha Coasters.

We support each other mainly by email and get together for occasional runs and social events.

Feel free to contact me in the first instance at the email address below.

Norman Bass, Upper Beeding

-roadrunner51@hotmail.com