ORGANISERS of the ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon through Trafford on Sunday said it was the biggest event in the race's history.

More than 9,500 runners crossed the finish line of the 40th Manchester Marathon on Talbot Road outside Lancashire County Cricket Club's Emirates Old Trafford - raising thousands for charity.

The half/half and four leg team relays also took place again, giving runners the opportunity to experience the marathon atmosphere and to raise money for charity without covering the full marathon distance.

Manchester running legend Dr Ron Hill started the race at 9am at the Trafford Arch on the A56 on a fine and sunny morning,

Steven Bayton of Hallamshire Harriers, who was competing in his first ever marathon, took the winning title in a time of 02:22:34.

Kevin Rojas claimed second place in 02:23:03 and Salford Harrier Nathan Kilcourse came third in 02:25:08.

In the women’s field, Kelly Crickmore of Stockport Harriers won in 02:48:04.

Samantha Amend of Belgrave Harriers was in the lead until mile 22, before Kelly pulled up and went on to secure the title. Runner up Amend finished in 02:52:07 and Anne Holyland of Wreake Runners took third place in 02:52:52.

John Smith, of Tunbridge Wells Harriers, claimed the ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon wheel chair race title in ahead of Mark Telford, and Mexican athlete Alicia Ibarra won the female wheelchair race.

Athletes of all levels and abilities took part in the 26.2 mile race, from first time marathon runners to club runners and elite athletes seeking a personal best or qualifying time.

They ran a course that took in the Trafford Quays area, Sale, Brooklands, Timperley, Altrincham, Urmston and Stretford - with strong support from the communities en route.

Many runners lining up on the start line raised money for charity including the official charities Cancer Research UK, The Christie charity and Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity.

Race director Simon Hill said: “We delivered our biggest event yet. Congratulations to our winners, and to everyone who took part.

“I would like to thank all the runners who chose to run the ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon this year, and to all the spectators, supporters, marshals and volunteers who cheer on the runners and contribute to the race being known as not only the flattest and fastest but also the friendliest marathon.

“A big thank you also goes to our title sponsor ASICS and all our other sponsors for their continued support, to the official charities and to all the local communities who were working with us.”

The inaugural Manchester Half Marathon takes place at the same venue on October 16 and entries are open, go to http://www.manchesterhalfmarathon.com/ for further details and to sign up.

Visit www.greatermanchestermarathon.com for results and further race details.