There was more than aching muscles and blisters on the mind of one London marathon runner last weekend.

Clive Allon, from Folkestone, used the event to surprise his girlfriend with a proposal of marriage.

Teacher Pamela Moore, 39, watched the event near the Cutty Sark and was looking out for Clive in his running gear.

However, on the start line Clive, 48, quickly changed into top hat and tails and en route he pulled a ring out of his jacket pocket and popped the question.

Clive, who works for Norfolkline, completed the marathon in four and a half hours, around an hour longer than his previous marathons.

Pam said: “It was a complete surprise, but it was lovely.

“It took him longer than usual to get round as he kept being stopped by camera crews because of what he was wearing. He enjoyed the day, although his top hat and tails really weighed him down once the rain started.”

The couple, who live in Clifton Crescent, Folkestone and who met at Folkestone Running Club, have not yet set a date for their wedding.