Security around this month’s Greater Manchester Marathon is to be beefed up in the wake of the deadly explosions that killed three people at a similar run in Boston yesterday.
Race bosses here described the bombs at the Boston Marathon – which also injured 152 runners and spectators at the finish line – as ‘a very sad day for running communities’ but insisted the Manchester event will still take place.
“We are deeply saddened by the awful happenings in Boston,” Greater Manchester Marathon Race Director Simon Hill said.
“Our deepest sympathies go out to those who have lost loved ones and have been injured, and to everyone affected.
“It is a very sad day for the running and marathon communities around the world.”
It is still unclear who was behind the attack, but American President Barack Obama has vowed that those responsible will feel the ‘full weight of justice’.
The bombing has put the spotlight on upcoming marathons around the globe but this Sunday’s London marathon is set to go ahead as planned, albeit with tightened security.
Graphic images from the scene showed plumes of smoke shrouding runners and bloodied victims trying to escape the carnage – some with limbs blown off.
Greater Manchester Police have released a statement to try and reassure runners that the upcoming Greater Manchester Marathon, to take place on Sunday April 28, will go ahead safely.
A police spokesman said: “With any large-scale event we always review our security arrangements based upon risk and threat.
“Following yesterday’s horrific events in Boston we will work with the organisers of the Greater Manchester Marathon to review the plans that we have in place.
“Our thoughts go out to those that were involved and have been affected by this.”
The Manchester marathon is back this month following a ten year absence, however the very first event in the city using the established 26 mile distance was in 1909.
Runners will finish outside Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium.
Image courtesy of BBC News, via BBC iPlayer, with thanks.
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