Brighton’s first ever full marathon is upon us. Residents and businesses think this is a great boost for the city and are ready to show their support.

Runner Marshall Matthews, a local dad running his first marathon, says: "We are a tourist city and this event is a big one which will give us national and potentially international attention if the event establishes itself."

His wife and children will be cheering on the sidelines. “Look out for the bright orange MS Society vest!” which is his chosen charity.

Tim Hodges, The Argus’ Albion blogger is taking part, running for Cancer Research. He also highlights the positives the marathon can bring “I think this will be a precursor to the Falmer Stadium in terms of putting the city on the sporting map. It will be beneficial if a TV station picks it up next year.” he says.

Both of them have trained on parts of the course. “The climb from St Dunstan’s to Rottingdean will be tough.” says Tim when asked what section he is least looking forward to. Both runners were unenthusiastic about the Shoreham harbour stretch which is around the 20-mile mark and quite bleak terrain.

As well as tourism prospects, many people believe it will bring a ‘feel-good’ factor to the city. The course is being boasted by the organisers to see the best of Brighton & Hove coastal views and with a warm sunny day in the forecast, its bound to bring a lot of residents out of their homes to watch the event.

Claire Watson from Roundhill area in Brighton will be out: “I think anything that brings a sense of community & a feeling of vibrancy can only be good for Brighton."

She adds “I've done charity collections at the London Marathon before & there's a great atmosphere. I want to support the Brighton runners, especially as I know few people taking part.”

Although the roads will be closed for the best part of the day, local cabbie Grant was confident the marathon will bring more people into the city. “We’ll lose money in the day, but I’m sure in the evening it will pick up, it will be like Pride I should imagine.”.

Café owners in the city are gearing up for possible extra trade. Ronnie who runs Henny’s in Brighton Square was hopeful that the event would bring extra footfall. “It’s difficult to tell if the event will stay focussed on the seafront or people will drift into the town, we’ll see.” he says.

The marathon starts at 8am. If you’re getting out there to support, check the organisers route map on their website for good spots to view.