The London Marathon 2009 is here: the runners have trained for months, the barriers along the route are already up and the capital is feverishly awaiting this year's London Marathon. 2009 Should be an exciting year whether you’re a runner or a spectator, as there are loads of ways that you can get involved and help out charities. The city will be transformed into a massive track just for the runners and you can line the streets to cheer them on.

Join the crowds
Be a part of London Marathon 2009 fever and join thousands of other spectators as they take over every available part of the route from Blackheath to the Mall at St James’s Park. Stake your place by a major London landmark or follow the runners as they try to beat the clock and their best time. Make sure you cheer as loudly as you can – your enthusiasm keeps their feet moving.Have a drink
If it’s getting a little bit hot and crowded outdoors escape inside at one of the pubs that line the 2009 marathon race route. Many of the pubs are hosting special events or offering drinks specials, so if you need a place to quench your thirst these pubs are second to none.Run for charity
The London Marathon 2009 is one of the biggest ways to get your charity noticed and it’s one of the best ways to raise money. Each year people raise loads of money for their respective charities and each year there’s an official race sponsor. For 2008 the charity sponsor was Breast Cancer Campaign, which helps raise money for breast cancer research.

29th Anniversary in 2009
The UK's most famous marathon is back for its 29th year, and people from all over the capital and the rest of the UK will be gathering to watch the London Marathon 2008 racers cross the finish line. Don't miss out on seeing history in the making and cheering on all the runners and participants.

Marathon history
Since the very first London Marathon on 29th March 1981, hundreds of thousands of people have taken place in the event. People come from more than 50 countries all across the world to compete, making it a top international event. Cheer on the crowd as people of all ages and athletic abilities compete in one of the biggest events in London.

Keep an eye out
If you, like many other Londoners, watch the marathon to see the fearless people running in costumes. Alongside the rhinos, the giant chickens and the other colourful characters, keep an eye out for Gerard from the I Knit London shop who will be running the London Marathon 2008 for the Water Aid charity.

Celebrate
Last year if you ran the marathon, you would have been able get a free glass of champagne from the Hide Bar afterwards. The first 50 people who presented their finishers medal to the bar staff got a free glass of champagne to celebrate with, so keep your eyes peeled for more free tipples in 2008.

The Flora London Marathon 2009 takes place on Sunday 19th April, starting at Blackheath. Entries for participants are now closed. Spectators are welcome to watch London Marathon racers from anywhere along the race route.