The months of waiting in anticipation are over as the ballot places for next year's London Marathon have been announced.

Entrants to the famous 26.2 mile road race will find either a confirmation or commiseration magazine on their doorstep in the coming days.

For those with a place, the hard work begins in earnest, with months of long weekend miles in the rain, early morning race-pace runs before work, and kilograms of pasta to look forward to.

For the others, the dream of taking part may seem all but over, having missed out on one of those coveted ballot places.

However, there is another way to take part, charities across the country are offering a guaranteed slot in the race in exchange for raising money.

One of those is the Lynda Jackson Macmillan Centre in Northwood, which offers a charity place once every five years.

Anybody interested can visit the related link below. The successful runner will be asked to raise a minimum of £1,500.

Do you know a charity with a place in the London Marathon? Email details to abinnie@london.newsquest.co.uk.