The gruelling coastal course from Ramsgate to Broadstairs and back provided the perfect pre-London marathon training run for athletes from around the UK.

Thanet Roadrunners hosted the 20 mile race that attracted 560 runners to the island on Sunday (March 1) to pit their strength and stamina against testing hill climbs along the scenic route.

First place in the men’s section went to Julian Rendall,31, from Tonbridge AC whose time of 1hr 53.21 saw him finish a mile ahead of second placed Andrew Green from Dartford Roadrunners. The 40-year-old crossed the line in 1hr 58.43. Third was Mark Wilkins, 28, from Invicta East Kent in just over two hours.

First woman home was Annabelle Stearns, 38, from Gravesend Roadrunners in 2hr 15.59. Second was Jill Cliff from Deal Tri, in 2hr, 16.15, with Sarah Yates, 34, from Wimbledon Wind Miles in 2hr 18.54.

Best performing men’s club was Dartford Roadrunners by one point over Invicta East Kent. Top ladies team was Canterbury Harriers, two points ahead of Maidstone Harriers. First runner from the host club home was Thanet’s Chris Caps in 2hr 18.48.

Race director Steve Adelsberg said: “This was a pretty tough course with some testing inclines. We strategically placed the event to fit in with runners’ training regimes in advance of the London marathon, which will seem like a stroll after our course with its strength-sapping inclines.”

Mr Adelsberg thanked the volunteers marshals and youth groups who helped on the day. He said: “Without their terrific back-up these sort of events would not take place.”

Thanet Roadrunners' next major event is the half and full marathon in September which will help raise funds in support of service personnel at home and abroad.