London Marathon: Extra police on duty

London, UK – Hundreds of extra police officers will be on duty at the London Marathon later in a bid to reassure runners and spectators after the Boston bombings.

More than 35,000 runners are due to take part in the race, which starts in Blackheath, south-east London.

A 30-second silence will be held at the start line for the three people killed and more than 170 others injured by the bombs at the Boston Marathon on Monday.

The Met Police says 40% more officers will be on duty than last year.

The force said that it had reviewed security plans after the Boston attacks and that the extra officers would be used for “for reassurance patrols”.

The marathon route, which is lined by hundreds of thousands of spectators each year, finishes near Buckingham Palace, passing some of London’s most recognisable landmarks, including Tower Bridge and Big Ben. Read more