CHORLEY Harriers chairman Martin Harrington has competed in a wide variety of marathons in several countries so you have to take note when he claims that "the Medoc Marathon near Bordeaux must be the best marathon in the world."

It is advertised as the "longest marathon in the world" not because of the distance, which is the usual 26.2 miles, but because there is so much to see, drink and to be entertained by. "The route runs through numerous vineyards with imposing chateaux and every second kilometre there is an opportunity to taste wine from the region." says Martin.

"In addition there were over 50 bands playing around the course this year from Jazz and Rock n Roll to the Blues.

"The overall atmosphere was tremendous. However, what really sets this up, as the best marathon is the 8,000 runners all in fancy dress."

Not to miss out Martin went as Minnie Mouse. Afterwards he said: "I never stopped smiling all the way round. The crowds, the runners, the entertainment just made for a tremendous event.

"The pasta party on the Friday night set the tone for what was a great weekend."

His time of 4 hours 50 minutes was irrelevant. "To run any faster would not have done justice to the event - well that's my excuse."

The day after the marathon, several thousands turned out for an organised walk round several vineyards with wine tasting culminating with lunch and dancing in a huge marquee.

While Martin was running the "longest" marathon, his club colleague Peter Starkey was running probably the toughest marathon in the world - The Jungfrau Marathon in Switzerland.

Last year, Martin and Peter both took part and Peter returned to tackle a course that runs from Interlaken climbing 6,900' to the foot of the Jungfrau Mountain.

It was a much more serious prospect than Martin's french trip and his recent training regime certainly paid dividends as Peter improved on last year's time by 15 minutes to complete the course in 5 hours 12 minutes. That evening in the hotel he was greeted with a round of applause from the other guests and a bouquet of flowers from the owners.

He is still undecided whether to make it three times in a row next year.

Lostock athlete Billy Burns made light of the conditions to improve on last year's placing by finishing third in 3:07:54.

Burns in currently in New Zealand for the World Trophy.