Nick Yates: Pubs lace up their running shoes

Some things aren't meant to be: after a month or so laid up by a knee injury and unable to run, I was finally able to hit the roads again last week in the forlorn hope that I could get enough miles under my belt to be ready for the Marathon. Somewhat inevitably, this proved optimistic and I have had to pull out of the event.

Since I started my training on Christmas Eve, I had been looking forward to joining the Fuller's London Pride team representing publicans and racing against the Flora team of chefs. So, 'disappointed', 'gutted', and 'deflated' are all terms that would describe how I feel right now. Still, better to return fit and ready for next year's event than do myself some serious damage running 26 miles which I'm sadly not prepared for this time around.

So, like many of you, I will be watching the action from the sidelines on Sunday, April 13. At least there are some good watering holes for spectators to base themselves in. Pubs seemingly line the course, and those geographically fortunate enough to be able to tap into the crowds are preparing to capitalise.

A whole host of activities, including a DJ, a tombola, a raffle, a BBQ and a children's stall, should boost business at the Castle Tavern, in Woolwich. The activities are all raising funds for the local hospital. "We're busy every year," says manager Marion Daulson. "Though we are busy naturally because of our location, it's all about the fun on the day. I get on the microphone and cheer on the runners."

The Royal Standard, in Charlton, will be opening early and staff will be in fancy dress.

Wetherspoons pub the Pommelers Rest, near Tower Bridge, will put banners up and raise money for charity. The Marathon also happens to land on the penultimate day of Wetherspoon's estate-wide beer festival, so the pub's manager is expecting to be particularly busy on April 13.

The Antigallican, in Woolwich, is, in the words of a spokeswoman for The Brain and Spine Foundation, 'being invaded' by the charity, who will be cheering on the runners and raising money.

It is also, of course a big day for race sponsor Fuller's London Pride. In the run-up to the event, the brewer is giving away free running gear at selected pubs in its estate to those participating. Runners: Just take along proof of entry and hurry while stocks last.

On the day, BBC London will be broadcasting live from Fuller's pub the Mint, near Tower Bridge, too.

Plenty of options then for this hobbled runner, and all the other spectators, to follow the London Pride and Flora teams. Wish them luck!

For more information on pubs around the course, see the Marathon website​: http://www.london-marathon.co.uk/