Cologne Marathon kicks off on Sunday

This Sunday will see runners from the world over gather in Cologne for the city's marathon.

The Ford Cologne Marathon was first run in 1997 and has growth in that short time to be Europe's sixth biggest marathon. It takes contestants over the River Rhine, past the city's incredible cathedral and around the various Romanesque churches of Cologne.

Every year more than 27,000 people join in the events around the spectacular city and are supported by enthusiastic crowds. The run is expected to take around four hours. Events will include wheelchair races, inline skating and handbikers, all of whom can take part in the race. There is also an 11 km walk.

People of all ages are encouraged to get involved and can get to Germany using the cross channel ferry. There is still the chance to enter the race, for those who are interested in a weekend break to the city and the opportunity to view it from the running course.