London Marathon organisers buy Scottish firms behind popular Loch Ness events

THE London Marathon organisers have bought the Scottish firms behind the Loch Ness Marathon and Etape Loch Ness cycling event.

Caledonian Concepts and Loch Ness Marathon Ltd were purchased for an undisclosed fee by London Marathon Events (LME).

The popular events bring in thousands to the area every year.

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The Loch Ness Marathon – which has been going on for over 20 years – saw almost 10,000 people take part this year.

Meanwhile, more than 5600 cyclists took part in the 10th edition of the Etape in April this year.

Both Scottish companies were founded by Malcolm and Caroline Sutherland, who will continue to lead the events.

Sutherland said: "We are extremely proud of what we have created in the Loch Ness Marathon, Etape Loch Ness and Inverness Half Marathon over the past 18 years.

"This acquisition is evidence of how incredible the events have become, and this is thanks to the hard work and passion of our fantastic team and volunteers, our sponsors, charity partners and stakeholders including the Highland Council, and the Highland community who welcome and cheer on participants from around the world every year."

LME chief executive Hugh Brasher said: "Malcolm, Caroline and their team have developed a fantastic series of events in a beautiful setting that support a network of charities both in Scotland and across the UK.

"They work closely with the local community to produce events that have a unique feel and relationship to local businesses and the area. We pledge to continue their work and build on all they have done."