PEOPLE taking part in tomorrow's ABP Newport Wales Marathon have been given the good wishes of the city's MPs and AMs ahead of their run.

Newport West’s new MP Ruth Jones, who was recently elected to succeed long-standing MP Paul Flynn, said she is "delighted" the marathon is returning to Newport after a successful debut last year.

“It’s great that elite athletes and fun runners alike are able to take part in such an event," she said.

“With increasing rates of obesity and the warnings about inactivity it is important we all take the health warning seriously and ensure we maintain or improve our own physical health and this of course leads to an improvement in mental wellbeing.

“The varied streets and scenery of Newport will be on display, if runners have time to take it in.

“I would like to thank the organisers and the volunteers who will give up their time to make sure the event is safe for all runners and spectators.”

Newport East MP Jessica Morden, said she hoped everyone would enjoy the event and their visit to the city.

“Good luck to everyone taking part," she said.

“The inaugural marathon in 2018 was a tremendous success, and this year’s event promises to be even bigger with television highlights due to be shown around the world.

“The Marathon is yet another example of Newport stepping up to the challenge of hosting major events, and showcasing its status as a vibrant sporting city.

“I hope that all the participants and spectators – including those visiting our city for the first time – have a really enjoyable day.”

John Griffiths AM, who has taken part in every Newport Half Marathon to date and also represents Newport East, said: “The Newport Marathon is a fantastic event for our city.

“Bringing many visiting runners and their families to our hotels restaurants and cafes, it raises Newport’s profile and helps put us on the map.

“It also encourages local people to take up running and become more active and healthier - albeit not 26 miles initially.

“Having run every Newport Half Marathon and six London Marathons in the past I look forward to taking part myself in future years”

“It is an exciting time for city with the return of Newport Marathon and 10k.

“The event will put running in the front of people’s minds and is an opportunity to build on the already many successful events and initiatives on offer in our city.

“Great schemes like the Newport and Riverfront park runs encourage people to live active lifestyles and anyone can participate, no matter their ability.

“I participate in every Saturday morning and there’s always is a great, friendly atmosphere which I am sure will be mirrored in Sunday’s marathon.

“I would like to wish all runners in the Newport Marathon on Sunday the very best of luck and I hope many will go along to support the participants in what I am sure will be a brilliant event.”

Jayne Bryant, Newport West AM, said: “The Newport Marathon is already gaining a top reputation and I admire every person who signs up.

“People will be running for a huge variety of reasons, with many fundraising for excellent charities and causes.

“I know there will be a wonderful atmosphere in the city tomorrow and I wish all competitors the best of luck.”