Election hopefuls all big fans of event

Candidates standing in Stirling for the forthcoming Westminster elections had their say on the benefits the event can bring to Stirling.

Wendy Chamberlain, Lib Dems

The route has been chosen to showcase Stirling constituency from Doune through Dunblane and Bridge of Allan to Stirling itself. The event will broaden the appeal of sport to all in the area, particularly with the inclusion of legendary distance runners Liz McColgan and Zola Budd.

The sponsorship of runners will raise funds for thousands of charities across the country.

Chris Kane, Labour

Stirling is blessed with world class heritage and a stunning environment in which to live and work. But a grand stage needs a fearless actor to bring it to life.

We are going to have thousands of local champions this weekend. The marathon brings people. It brings focus. It brings attention. It showcases Stirling to the world. It brings money into our local economy. It enriches our cultural experience. It gives one more reason to proclaim this is Stirling and we are proud.

Stephen Kerr, Conservatives

Without the support and cooperation of the communities along the route it would simply not be possible to look forward to this world class event taking place in Stirling. I would like to thank all of them and everyone else involved. This will quickly become the best and most popular marathon in Scotland bringing with it significant benefits to our economy and helping showcase Stirling as the perfect location whatever the occasion.

Steven Paterson, SNP

The Stirling area boasts a stunning array of attractions for tourists and visitors and holding an event such as this will also help boost our strong local tourism sector.

It is fitting that the marathon itself passes through our local Stirling University – Scotland’s official University for Sporting Excellence.

This comes at a time when the SNP Scottish Government is investing in SportScotland, to encourage better participation across the country.”

Kirstein Rummery, Women’s Equality Party

I don’t really get marathons. Why would you run 26 miles; isn’t that what buses are for?

Seriously, I will love watching the Stirling marathon, and the hundreds of runners from different backgrounds taking part.

I love that it is an opportunity to show off our town, for people to raise money for different charities and causes they care about, and for serious runners to compete.

I love that it attracts so many people here and they get to find out how friendly and beautiful our city is. And I also love that it does no harm for the sellers of umbrellas and rain gear.”