This marathon is advertised as flat - it isn't what I would call flat! There was an unexpected hill at around 7 miles, a long drag from 17-19 miles and a small hill in the last half mile. I don't mind hills I just would like to know about them in advance and know that a marathon advertised as flat was flat!

Aside from the undulations, it is a great route, combining a few miles around historic York (including the tolling of the bells of the Minster as runners pass) with a scenic run around the villages and countryside to the East of the city.

Support was fantastic with villagers in each village it passed through creating a carnival atmosphere. There were some sections without many spectators, but that is sometimes a good thing (giving you a chance to have your own headspace).

The race village was well organised. It had a great t shirt, medal and goodie bag.

After a few years off marathons, I'm hoping to give it a go again this year.