Sir — Re Mr Hughes’s letter in last week’s issue, it is unfortunate that he clearly cannot appreciate the benefit and enjoyment that events like the Clarendon Way Marathon give to so many people. I am sad for him if he finds the site of “panting, perspiring men and women” so upsetting.

I would like to assure all residents along the route that every effort is made to collect the plastic cups as soon as possible and that that every effort will be made to minimise any disturbance in the future. Although Mr Hughes does not agree, it was all cleared up, but apologies, anyway, to all residents and anyone else for any inconvenience caused.

However I do feel Mr Hughes’s comments in a subsequent email I received from him, where he said that those passing his gate were “not all lean, mean, running machines”, were unnecessary and derogatory.

This event attracts well over 1,300 entries from all over England, Wales and even Germany and Holland. It has helped raise tens of thousands of pounds for charities over the years, among them the Magpie Scanner Appeal, Rotary, Macmillan, Mencap, St John Ambulance, Search and Rescue and the Hello Martha Fund.

So may I say, well done and a big thanks to all the helpers and runners. I think you’re great, even if one or two might not do so!

Paul Elderkin, Race Director, Clarendon Way Marathon.