IT’S that time of the year again... spring is in the air and thousands of runners are preparing to take part in the Brighton Marathon tomorrow.

Of course, there will be the serious athletes aiming to set personal best times but it is always great to see so many fun runners taking part, raising tens of thousands of pounds for various charities in the process.

It is the second biggest marathon in the country, only behind the London Marathon in terms of popularity, and it always draws a huge number of spectators who line the streets along the route to cheer those who are participating.

According to the weather forecast the temperature will be ideal for running the 26.2 mile course with it expected to be 9C with a light breeze. Fortunately it is also expected to be rain free on the big day.

Runners of all shapes and sizes and ages will be taking part, which underlines the diversity of our city which has become such a popular place to host major events such as the marathon and Pride, drawing people from the city, the county and far beyond its borders.

The marathon brings our city alive and if you haven’t witnessed it before then find a spot along the route and cheer the runners on.

We know from previous years that they really appreciate it and gives them a timely boost.

Regardless of whether it is an elite male runner completing the course in two hours 15 minutes or a person getting around in six hours, it is still a magnificent achievement.

They all thoroughly deserve their medals.