The London Marathon once more delivered some heartwarming images on a hot day in the capital as a record 56,000 pounded the pavements over the 26.2 miles.

Great Britain’s Mahamed Mahamed, who was the first Brit over the line, said: “It’s tough out there, I was really enjoying it after halfway but then it got tougher. I did really enjoy it, though, it’s definitely a dream for me to be the first Brit home in the London Marathon, the crowd really pushed me on a lot.”

Finishing several hours behind Mahamed was singer Alexandra Burke. She said: “It’s very emotional running here. We were running for our mum and it’s an honour to be here. All that training and hard work feels like it was worth it. The highlight for me was crossing the line. I really hope to do it another year.”

There were many other celebs taking part, with DJ Chris Evans, presenter Kelly Brook and ex-footballer John Terry all involved. Another presenter, Joel Dommett, endured a tough time, fainting on route, but still finishing.

“Whether you crossed that Finish Line or helped friends and family along the way with your support, you all helped make our 45th edition one to remember,” an organiser said. “There is nowhere like London.”

Here are all the best photos from another amazing day that made London proud.

The best photos from the London Marathon

Runners prepared to embark after a chilly start to the day

Action Images via Reuters

Wheelchair athletes were the first to get underway

Action Images via Reuters

Elite Women’s Megertu Alemu reaches half way

Jonathan Brady/PA Wire

Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa is the winning woman

AFP via Getty Images

Meanwhile, the masses make it to the Cutty Sark, the first of the big landmarks

London Marathon Events/PA Wire

The masses cross Tower Bridge

Jonathan Brady/PA Wire

Sabastian Sawe was the first man home

Getty Images

Britain’s Alex Yee was Olympic triathlon champion but gave his debut marathon a good go

John Walton/PA Wire

Isle of Dogs is a tough patch for many

Yui Mok/PA Wire

Those in costume began to find it hard early on

Yui Mok/PA Wire

This charity push was a real group effort

Yui Mok/PA Wire

Taking a breather

Yui Mok/PA Wire

Romesh Ranganathan after crossing the finish line

John Walton/PA Wire

Getting rehydrated after the run

AFP via Getty Images

And taking a well-earned rest

AP