THE Plusnet Yorkshire Marathon in York will have a £12,000 prize pot up for grabs at this October’s inaugural event.

The scale of the cash awards means the flagship new marathon – which is completely sold out - will offer the highest level of prize money anywhere in the UK, outside of London.

First placed man and woman win £2,500 each, second both win £1,250 each, third £750, fourth £375 and fifth £125 each.

A bonus of £500 each is available to both the top male and female British finishers. In addition, there is a £500 bonus for the fastest male finisher under 2:16 and female under 2:35. With a flat and fast course through the historic city of York and its picturesque countryside.

The Plusnet Yorkshire Marathon is expected to be hotly-contested by athletes looking for an exceptionally fast time, organisers said.

Plusnet Yorkshire Marathon event lead Lisa Ashcroft said: “Because of its exceptionally flat and fast course, we are expecting the marathon to become a ‘must event’ for top class athletes.

"To that end, we’ve decided to introduce a prize structure that confirms our ambition to be among the UK’s best marathons. It also brings together the best of international athletes while providing a fantastic opportunity to help develop opportunities for home-grown talent.”

Elite athletes who have not already secured their place are now invited to apply for places in the event on October 20.