London Marathon Will Go Ahead Despite The Boston Bombings

Security surrounding the London Marathon is being reviewed following the fatal bombings in Boston yesterday

The London Marathon will go ahead despite the two fatal explosions that hit the Boston Marathon yesterday.

Security surrounding the London event will be reviewed, in light of the tragedy in the States.

The Met Police's Ch Supt Julia Pendry, the commander in charge of policing the London Marathon, told the BBC of Sunday's event: 'A security plan is in place. We will be reviewing our security arrangements in partnership with London Marathon.'

While, London Marathon chief executive Nick Bitel said in a statement: 'We are deeply saddened and shocked by the news from Boston.

'Our immediate thoughts are with the people there and their families. It is a very sad day for athletics and for our friends and colleagues in marathon running.'

He added: 'The London Marathon has detailed security plans which are developed in conjunction with the Metropolitan Police.

'They take account of many contingencies, including this type of threat and incident, but one can't be complacent and when it has happened, you need to then review those plans you have in place to see what else may be necessary.

'That is certainly what we are going to be doing in the forthcoming hours and days.'

Three people were killed and and at least 144 hospitalised, with 17 in critical condition and 25 in a serious condition, when two explosions struck near the finish line in Boston.

An eight-year-old boy was among the dead, and a nine-year-old girl, a seven-year-old boy, a 12-year-old and another child aged two were among the injured being treated at the city's Children's Hospital, according to the Globe.

At least two more unexploded bombs were also found near the end of the 26.2-mile (42km) course but they were safely disarmed, a senior US intelligence official told the Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

Officials do not yet know who is behind the attack. Speaking after the tragedy, President Barack Obama said: 'We still do not know who did this or why. And people shouldn't jump to conclusions before we have all the facts. But make no mistake - we will get to the bottom of this. And we will find out who did this; we'll find out why they did this. Any responsible individuals, any responsible groups will feel the full weight of justice'

Have you entered the London Marathon? Are you still planning to take part or has the tragic events in Boston made you think again? Let us know in the comment box below.

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