Last year the Covid-19 pandemic postponed the world-famous race, which was usually takes place in April, to early October, with only 'elite' runners allowed to compete over transmission fears.

This time around, however, the huge crowds and dazzling costumes we've come to associate with the event will return as amateur runners, many of whom will raise money for chosen charities, return.

Race director Hugh Brasher said recently he expects the 2021 edition to be "the most memorable London Marathon ever" with 40,000 runners expected and a further 40,000 to compete in a "virtual" event.

"It will be a moment of joy, of true emotion," Brasher told BBC Breakfast.

"Something we think could easily be the most memorable London Marathon ever."

To help manage Covid-19 concerns this year, all runners are being asked to present negative lateral flow tests before starting the race, while elite runners take regular PCR tests.

The famous 26-2 mile course runs from Blackheath in Greenwich, across the Thames at Tower Bridge and past The Shard before turning to central London and the spectacular finish line at The Mall.