Southampton Marathon is back.

Thousands of people flooded the streets of the city in one of the biggest events in two years.

Above Bar Street was transformed into a sea of colour on Sunday morning as runners poured into the city centre.

Many had been waiting for at least two years after the event was pulled due to Covid fears in 2020.

It is believed around 7,000 people took part.

There were three separate races including the marathon, half marathon, and 10km.

Much of Southampton was car-free as runners weaved along the main roads and over the Itchen Bridge.

More than 800 volunteer marshals were on stand by, helping out from 30 different community groups including sports groups, scouts, cheerleaders and universities.

Gil McClure, 33, was speaking on behalf of Southampton-based running club, the Itchen Spitfires.

He said: “We love the event, it’s our home city, we run around the roads that we train on, we see loads of people that we know and it’s always such a huge buzz and the atmosphere is amazing.”

The youth worker from Shirley added: “And at the moment it’s just great to be back at races and it’s so great that this is going ahead. For me, it’s one of the highlights of the year because it’s our local race.”

Runners from the Hamwic Harriers running club which is based at Southampton Common also turned out for the event.

Student, Cameron Hill, 20, said it was a chance to get fit and his first race since Covid.

Teacher Hugh Jenkinson, 28, mentioned he had booked the race about two years ago.

After finishing a half marathon, Darren Toomey, 49, from Swanwick described the event as absolutely brilliant with a great atmosphere.

Sara Sherriff, 46, agreed, adding: “I think I would definitely do it again.”

Race director, Chris Rees, said: “The city has just come alive again.

“It’s been a big challenge to put on this event.

“It’s been a tough one but it’s been worth it today. Just look at all the happy runners’ faces.”

Chris also revealed that the event is set to return on April 24 next year. For more information visit the ABP Southampton Marathon website.