In November 1979, Chris Brasher took part in the New York City Marathon and afterwards, in a major article in The Observer, wrote: "I wonder whether London could stage such a festival? We have the course, a magnificent course, but do we have the heart and hospitality to welcome the world?" Donald Trelford, then the Editor of The Observer, and Chris Brasher met with the relevant authorities - and the athletics’ governing bodies - and the London Marathon was born.
