ORGANISERS of the ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon are celebrating after it received international recognition.

The race has been approved by AIMS, the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races.

AIMS is a prestigious international network of more than400 top races in more than 120 countries, which works alongside the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF).

AIMS and IAAF accreditation is also expected to attract more runners from overseas to what is known as the UK’s flattest, fastest and friendliest marathon.

The approval comes just ahead of the ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon taking place on April 10.

Race director Simon Hill said: “I am delighted and extremely proud that the ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon has received international recognition through AIMS and IAAF.

"It has been part of our long-term plans to develop the race on a global level, and this world-renowned status will be of great benefit to our runners, our many sponsors and also to the City of Manchester and the borough of Trafford.

“It is exciting that our IAAF standard will help us to further enhance the top-class, elite field not only from the UK but from Europe and worldwide. This year marks the 40th edition of the Manchester Marathon and our international status gives us a great deal to look forward to in years to come.”

The ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon offers a British-only prize fund that attracts a top quality British elite field as well as many international runners.

Being fast and flat, it is an ideal race for athletes of all levels including first-time marathoners, charity runners and elite runners seeking a PB or qualifying time. The race is renowned for its huge crowd and community support and the lively entertainment around the course.

There were 15,000 places were available for the ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon in 2016, which was voted the UK’s Best Marathon by runners at The 2015 Running Awards for the second consecutive year.

Entry has now closed for the ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon 2016.

Visit www.greatermanchestermarathon.com for full race details.