Chester marathon makes seven-figure contribution to local economy

The team behind the MBNA Chester Marathon has revealed that last year’s event contributed over £1.5m to local businesses.

Nearly 5,000 people took part in the marathon race, with an additional 16.5k arriving in the area over the course of the race weekend.

According to the latest figures, each participant spent an average of £400 on eating out, shopping and local attractions.

More than half of the entrants arranged overnight accommodation in Chester or the surrounding area, with some choosing to stay for longer.

Chris Hulse of Active Leisure Events, which organises the event, said: “The feedback we’ve received from our 2014 race survey demonstrates the importance of this race to the city of Chester and the enormous benefits it delivers to local businesses and charitable causes every single year.

“When we established the first MBNA Chester Marathon in 2010, we set out to make it the UK’s favourite regional marathon. Over the years we’ve managed to exceed those ambitions – being named the UK’s ‘Best Marathon’ by the readers of Runner’s World in 2012 – but every year the race continues to attract thousands of runners.”

Credit card company MBNA, which is based in Chester, is set to mark its sixth consecutive year of sponsorship with the marathon.

MBNA’s strategy and innovation executive, James Poole, said: “We’ve watched the race grow spectacularly since 2010 and we’re exceptionally proud to be part of something that is making such a positive contribution to the economic and social fabric of our local community.”

In 2015, the race is again expected to draw more than 5,000 runners. Scheduled for October 4, the marathon kicks off from Chester Racecourse and passes a number of local landmarks, including the Town Hall, the Estate Clock and the Roman amphitheatre.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →