I’ve never run the London Marathon but for the past few years I’ve stood enthusiastically at the side of the road cheering from the first elites until the stragglers plod on home.

It’s always an emotional thing to watch up close and personal. I once went to watch a World Championship boxing match and had seats so close to the action that we were in danger of getting soaked with sweat, spit and who knows what else. The noise that boxing glove of body makes is horrible and one that isn’t appreciated until it’s heard at close range.

Watching a marathon, sharing high-fives with runners, feeling their palms sticky with sweat and sports drink, and seeing the pain and emotion on their faces, is something that also demands a ringside seat. Having been on the ropes myself, I know how much difference a well-timed ‘You can do it’ can make.

So, if you’ve ever run, thought about running a marathon or know someone who has, spend a day cheering. It will make a huge difference to the runners and will really inspire you. What never fails to amaze me is the different shapes and sizes that marathon runners come in. Think you’re too short, too heavy, too old to run? Go spectate and think again.