I recently watched the Sussex Beacon Half Marathon and was impressed with the organisation involved and the enthusiasm shown by the participants and organisers alike.

However, I was a little dismayed at the 4,000 or more plastic carrier bags which were distributed - one was given to each finisher. They contained free goodies, except of course nothing is free as the cost of entry was quite high.

From my observation the bags could have been reduced in size by at least half. Why not use paper bags? Why give any freebies away in the first place? Surely it would be easier, cheaper and less work involved for the organisers if they just reduced the cost of entry by a pound or two. It would also reduce pollution in an instant and would help the environment.

My suggestions are meant to be helpful and not as a criticism.

I appreciate that many of these races are in aid of good causes but is it necessary to add to society's waste products in such an unnecessary and wasteful way?

Maybe the organisers could bear these suggestions in mind for next year and for the proposed marathon in 2009.

  • Ray O'Donoghue, Upper Belgrave Road, Seaford