THE Trafford-based ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon has been voted the country's best marathon.

The event bagged gold at the Running Awards which took place at indigo at the O2 in London on April 20.

The Greater Manchester race came first in the 'UK’s Best Marathon' category (over 5000 runners) as voted for by runners.

It is the third time it has taken the title - it previously won the award in 2014 and 2015.

The 2017 event took place in Trafford on April 2 and was hailed an outstanding success by all involved.

The organisers, Xtra Mile Events, also took home the Bronze trophy after the Aldi Manchester Half Marathon, which took place for the first time last October, came third in the half marathon category (over 5,000 runners).

Race director Simon Hill said: “We are thrilled that the ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon has been voted the UK’s best marathon for a third time by runners, and we would like to thank every single runner who took the time to vote for us.

"In addition to the sought-after gold trophy we are also taking home the bronze trophy for the Aldi Manchester Half Marathon which took place for the first time last autumn.

“A big thank you again to everyone who has been coming to race in Manchester over these past few years and supporting us, and to every single person who has been contributing to the success of the ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon and Aldi Manchester Half Marathon. This really means a lot to myself and the team and we are very grateful for all the support.”

Both races start and finish near Emirates Old Trafford home of Lancashire County Cricket Club.

Entries for the 2017 Manchester Half Marathon on Sunday, October 15 are open, go to www.manchesterhalfmarathon.com for further details and to sign up.

The date for the 2018 ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon will be announced soon. Runners can however pre-register for the 2018 race and secure a place at the early bird entry fee of £50. Go to www.greatermanchestermarathon.com to pre-register.