SOUTHAMPTON city centre was buzzing with energy this weekend.

Thousands of runners have pounded the streets during the return of the ABP Southampton Marathon.

The Guildhall Square and nearby parks were packed on Sunday morning as competitors stretched and warmed up before embarking on a race around the city.

Meanwhile, friends and family lined the streets cheering them on and waving placards.

Setting off from Above Bar Street at 9am, the runners formed a sea of colour.

Members of local clubs had been looking forward to the hotly anticipated event since 2019.

Taking part on the day were representatives from local clubs including the Itchen Spitfires, Hamwic Harriers and Hedge End Running Club.

Firefighters from St Mary’s, Hightown and Andover Fire Stations even took part in the gruelling challenge while carrying their own ‘engine’.

The Itchen Bridge vibrated as runners bounded across and around 10am.

It was lined with enthusiastic spectators as well as a cheerleading squad chanting words of support.

Holding a bunch of balloons, Rob and Kay Ball were cheering on their daughter Alice.

Further along the bridge, Pete Holt stood keeping an eye out for his wife, Sue, who was running for Southampton-based charity, Amber Chaplains.

He said: “She has never run before.

“This is her first event and she just started running in lockdown and now she’s doing Southampton 10km so I’m just really proud of her.”