Harry cheers on marathon runners (From News Shopper)

Harry cheers on marathon runners

8:02pm Sunday 22nd April 2012 in National News © Press Association 2013

A 30-year-old woman collapsed and died while running in the London Marathon, organisers have said.

She collapsed at Birdcage Walk, near St James' Park, on the final stretch of the 26.2 mile course, a statement on the marathon's official website confirmed.

The woman was given medical attention at the scene but died on Sunday afternoon, organisers said.

A statement on the London Marathon website said: "We would like to emphasise that our immediate concern is for the family of the deceased. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with them at this difficult time."

Up to 37,500 runners set off in bright sunshine through the streets of the capital to earn their medals and raise money for countless charities. Runners were given a Royal welcome as Prince Harry offered support to those crossing the finish line.

He joked that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge planned to run the 26.2 mile course next year, as he met volunteers and presented prizes to the winning athletes in the 32nd London Marathon.

In the elite races, the event was dominated by the Kenyans, with Wilson Kipsang winning the men's race at his first attempt with a time of two hours four minutes and 44 seconds. Compatriot Mary Keitany retained her London Marathon title with a time of two hours 18 minutes and 36 seconds, setting a new national record in the process.

Britain had plenty to celebrate in the wheelchair races, with David Weir and Shelly Woods making it a home double. And Claire Hallissey won the shoot-out between hopefuls for the final place on the British Olympic women's marathon team.

As well as the elite athletes and fun runners, a host of famous faces took part in this year's run in support of good causes.

The fastest female celebrity was Nell McAndrew, who broke down in tears after breaking the three hour mark, finishing with six minutes to spare. Rower James Cracknell was the only other celebrity to finish in less than three hours, crossing the line in two hours 59 minutes having recently recovered from a life-threatening head injury.