Sunday was the 28th annual London Marathon and more than 35,000 people crossed the finish line with many celebrities amongst them.

Gordan Ramsey was running for the ninth time at the event and was raising money for several causes including spina bifida.  Being a veteran of the marathon doesn’t make it any easier according to the celebrity chef who ran the 26 miles in dismal weather conditions.

Amanda Holden was running for the ‘Born Free Foundation’ and admitted to have been training for the past six months to get in shape for the run.

James Cracknell, the British Olympic rower said “I had a good race.  It was a strong first half of the race for me.  About six miles to go I felt I was slowing, so kicked to try and maintain my speed.  In the end it just got harder and harder and I was struggling to make the finish.”

Tony Audenshaw, who plays Bob Hope in Emmerdale said “In one way I was disappointed that I didn’t break three hours - but what’s a second or so between friends.  I was running as Tarzan to keep the ‘banana army theme’ going and of course raising lots of money for our charity, Leukaemia Research.”

Michel Roux, the World renowned Chef said “I always enjoy the London Marathon.  This is my tenth and it always gives me that extra special feeling.  I’ve run in Paris and New York, this one I always come back to.”

Ronan Keating said “This was my first marathon and what a great feeling it was.  Everything they told me about the atmosphere and the people on the streets was true.  It was true that my training didn’t go any further than a couple of six milers  - my wife will vouch for that.  When you run for a reason or a charity it makes it all worth while.  I know the charity, Cancer Research UK, I was running for, me running here today will help enormously and I’ll be back.”

Kate Lawler was amongst the runner in an outfit said to have been designed by Ann Summers. Phil Daniels posed for photographs before his race with Ben Fogle.

Paula Radcliffe was unable to take part in the marathon this year due to a toe problem, she said “I’m really gutted I’m not going to be able to take part this year.  When April comes around it feels like something is wrong if I’m not running in London.  But I’m just happy I’m not injured and watching it, because that it way, way harder.  To be able to do a run, sit down and watch it and then do another run will help me.”

A gas leak at the 13 mile point of the marathon meant that organisers had to hastily re-route runners after the start of the race with a 200 metre chicane, but it didn’t seem to cause any problems.