A band played Auld Lang Syne before runners set out on the 21st and probably the last Seven Sisters Marathon.

A total of 1,300 set off across downland from Eastbourne and Jevington towards Alfriston and Litlington before returning over the Seven Sisters and Beachy Head, near Eastbourne.

First to cross the line was Hastings-born lecturer Danny Woods, from the University of Brighton, who broke the three-hour barrier with a time of 2 hours 58 minutes.

Second was Brian Willis, from Royston Runners, in 3 hours 9 minutes, followed closely by Dick Kearn, of Compton Harriers with an almost identical time.

First woman to finish was Lindsay McLaren, of The Serpentine Running Club, with a time of 3 hours 27 minutes.

It was the final run under the direction of organisers Tony Raven and Leslie Smith, who during the past 21 years have seen the 26-mile event swell with entrants from across Britain.

But the increasing difficulty of ensuring the safety of runners and the departure of some key organising figures are among several factors which may finish the event.

Mr Raven said: "With the passing of every event, we always say to ourselves never again. But when it comes down to it we always carry on.

"There were mixed emotions on Saturday as it is extremely hard work to organise. But it is sad to know there will not be another."

There has been speculation the event may be revived under different organisers but Mr Raven and Mr Smith are adamant it will be without their involvement.

Mr Smith said: "I haven't been contacted but none of our team will be assisting should it be staged again. We are all standing down together."