FOLLOWING the success of the first ever Yorkshire Marathon, sponsorship has been confirmed for the next two years.

Phone and broadband provider Plusnet will back the marathon, which was run by more than 6,000 people this weekend, and raised about £1.3 million for a variety of charities.

Thousands of people lined the 26.2 mile course to see the runners from around the world at the event, which was organised by the team behind the Run For All 10K series and Leeds Half Marathon, and brought a £1m boost to York’s economy.

Jamie Ford, Plusnet chief executive officer, said: “This year’s event has been a fantastic spectacle, both for its sporting achievements and for the spirit and support of the crowds in attendance and I am pleased Plusnet can play a part in growing this event into something even bigger and better for the future.”

The marathon is part of the lasting legacy of the late Jane Tomlinson CBE, who raised almost £2million by completing a series of amazing sporting challenges, despite being diagnosed with incurable cancer.

Jane’s husband, Mike Tomlinson said: “We are delighted that Plusnet is to continue its support for the Yorkshire Marathon.

“The company’s involvement with the 2013 event helped ensure it was a great success and we are confident that, with Plusnet’s continued backing, the marathon will go from strength to strength both as a major sporting and fundraising event.”

Next year’s event takes place on Sunday, October 12, and organisers have advised runners who want to take part to apply as soon as possible by signing up to a pre-sale register which will open for entries on Friday, January 3. Regular entries will be available from Monday, January 6.

Go to theyorkshiremarathon.com for details.