London Marathon 2015: How can I enter the ballot for next year's race?

You're too late this year, but if you fancy taking part in 12 months time, here's how

The 34th London Marathon takes place this weekend. Starting in Greenwich, the 26.2 mile course takes in some of London's top tourist attractions and finishes at The Mall, in front of Buckingham Palace.

Those keen to take part in the race in 2015 can apply in three different ways:

Online ballot

This hasn't actually opened for next year's marathon yet but, when it does, potential participants will be able to apply for a place in the race by visiting www.virginmoneylondonmarathon.com/.

Through a charity

Different charities offer runners the chance to run the marathon, though participants often need to raise a certain amount of money to be eligible to compete. And just to be clear, you don't have to run dressed as a rhino.

Deferred entry

Any runners that had to withdraw from this year's race due to injury or illness can apply to take part in 2015, as long as they do so by 5pm on June 20, 2014. More information on deferred entries can be found here: www.virginmoneylondonmarathon.com/marathon-centre/enter-virgin-london-marathon/deferred-entries-due-illness-or-injury/