LONDON Marathon runners have pounded the streets of the capital in record numbers, urged on by a trio of royal cheerleaders.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry were on the sidelines to cheer the heroics of 39,487 racers, the most to ever complete the 26.2-mile course.

They dished out high-fives and selfies to the crowds, having earlier started the event by pressing a large red button.

As runners began to pour over the finishing line in the afternoon sunshine, an act of comradeship between two competitors became one of the day’s defining moments.

Swansea athlete Matthew Rees sacrificed his own race time to shoulder the weight of stricken David Wyeth, carrying his rival across the finishing line.

Organisers said the final athletes completed the course at 6.15pm, leaving 561 who did not finish.

This year wacky records were conquered by the dozen, ranging from the fastest runner in Wellington boots to the quickest carrying a tumble drier.

Guinness World Records said the day saw a total of 39 successful efforts.

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