AN armed forces veteran is set to resurrect an ‘iconic’ marathon not run for more than 30 years.

Richard Smith, who lives in Warrington town centre, has revealed plans to reintroduce the Bolton Marathon for 2020.

And the 35-year-old hopes to make the event ‘better than the London Marathon’

A former Royal Marine, Richard said: “I’m not born and brought up in Bolton so I didn’t know the original marathon.

“I had no experience of it personally, but I knew of it and I knew that it was really successful and really popular.

“We have had tremendous interest in the Bolton Marathon, and I know there are lots of keen runners in Warrington and the surrounding areas who would love to have a go.

“People are willing to travel distances to take part in a good marathon and test themselves.

“We are aiming for this to be the best organised road marathon in the UK – we want to make the experience superb for everyone.

“That doesn’t just mean those running, it means spectators, residents and businesses and those who join as volunteers.”

The Bolton Marathon 2020 will take place on May 17 next year, with Bolton Hospice having been confirmed as the event’s preferred charity.

Last held more than three decades ago, the marathon formerly attracted thousands of spectators.

Warrington Guardian:

The 1984 Bolton Marathon

Up to 4,000 runners will take place in the newly-reintroduced race, which will follow a route all around the Lancashire town – finishing and ending in the centre.

Race director Richard, a fitness and running coach originally from Warwickshire, added: “It will certainly be a true test of running ability.

“If you only complete one marathon in your life and it’s the Bolton Marathon, you can give yourself a huge pat on the back.”

Entries for the Bolton Marathon 2020 are priced at £55, with applications now open at boltonmarathon.com.

A 10km race and family fun day will also be held alongside the marathon, with entry costing £25 and capacity limited to 1,500 participants.