Tens of thousands of runners – as well as residents from England’s capital – are steeling themselves for this weekend’s London Marathon.
In the lead up to Sunday’s race, plates of pasta and relaxation will be on the menu for the 51,266 applications who were accepted – more than ever before.
Among these will be the usual mix of celebrities, elite runners and enthusiastic amateurs, some dressed as leprechauns, fireman or even Tellytubbies.
Princess Beatrice, 21, is attempting to become the first royal to complete the race. She will be part of a 34-strong human caterpillar, attempting to smash the record for the most number of people tied together.
The Goldsmith’s student said: “I am training very hard, I love this challenge and cannot wait.”
The caterpillar will be led by Sir Richard Branson’s children, Holly and Sam, as Virgin sponsor the year’s event.
Former Army Major Phil Packer, who sustained serious spinal chord injuries in 2008, will walk the route in 26 hours for 26 charities. The ex-serviceman has raised a total of £1.3 million for charity. Last year he finished the race in 14 days.
