FCR Events have been recommended in the past, and this is the first one I have done. Registration is simple and the company offer various events all year through their website. I got to Blackpool early and found a car park close to the start line, which was a bonus after running 26.2 miles....

The Marathon and Half Marathon started at the same time, but in opposite directions and was well sign posted. The race went along the promenade from the north end of Blackpool, past the Tower, attractions and the Pleasure Beach. You then turned around and ran back along to Bispham, then back again. The added bonus is that the event had a full road closure along the front so the course was traffic free. The support was quiet early on, (started at 09:30), and it was raining. Crowds steadily got busier and the weather slowly improved. The last few miles was run in glorious sunshine and was actually quite warm. 

Upon finishing, you were handed a bottle of water, banana, chocolate, tshirt and a medal. All in all, it was a great event and I will certainly look at doing more FCR events in the future. 

PS: The medal is a cracker!