THE Flora London Marathon has broken new fund-raising records by smashing through the £30 million barrier for the first time in its history.

The total raised for the 2002 event was an impressive £31 million, outstripping the previous best of £24.8 million.

A fantastic £50,221 was raised for charity by 53 local runners, including Bolton's Barrie Makinson who raised £1,185 for Cancer Research UK.

The men's event was won in a new world record time by Khalid Khannouchi of the USA, while Britain's Paula Radcliffe set a women's world record on her debut.

Tens of thousands of individuals, many novice runners, take up the challenge each year in order to raise funds for charities close to their hearts.

Race director David Bedford said: "Once again we have been overwhelmed with the incredible growth in the amount raised for charity by runners.

"It's a tribute to the race's unique appeal that it should continue to generate more and more funds for worthy causes."

The next Flora London Marathon takes place on Sunday, April 13, 2003 and entries are now open.

Application forms are in Marathon News, a free magazine which is available from all major sports outlets in Bolton, or call the Flora London Marathon helpline on 0207 902 0189 for more information.