WHAT an inspiring spectacle the London Marathon is - a world-class sporting event for the elite athletes and the everyday runners.

Runners from York and North Yorkshire were among those taking part in this uplifting, if foot-sore, occasion. Like all the runners, they will have felt every one of those miles and will be suffering aches today, along with the glow of satisfaction.

Huge amounts are raised for charity and all the sponsored runners deserve praise for their sweat and stamina.

Come September, some of those same runners will doubtless be putting on their running shoes again for the Great North Run.

Updated: 10:12 Monday, April 19, 2004