Now a broadcaster, Cram was one of the country's three great middle distance stars from the Golden Age of British Athletics in the 1980s.

When Cram won World Championship gold in 1983, the 1500 metres Olympic champion (Sebastian Coe), world champion (Cram) and world record holder (Steve Ovett) were all British.

"Steve was my hero when I was running," said Brighton Race Director Tim Hutchings.

"His name still resonates with millions of Britons as someone who had them punching the air so many times in front of their TV sets.

"He's heavily involved in the sport as a TV commentator, coach and sports politician, and his performances were so ahead of their time that very few runners, anywhere in the world, have gone faster even now.

"Having Steve as Starter is a real privilege for us and I know Brighton & Hove will give him a fitting welcome."

In 1984, Cram came back from injury to collect silver in the Los Angeles Olympics behind Coe before enjoying his annus mirabilis in 1985 when in an extraordinary 19 days he broke the world record for the mile, 1500m and 2,000m.

His mile time of 3min 46.32sec is still the European record after more than 25 years.

Apart from his World triumph he also collected two European golds and three Commonwealth titles.

"I'm really looking forward to being the Official Starter for this year's Brighton Marathon," said Cram.

"It has very quickly established itself as one of the most respected road races in the UK and the organisers have done a fantastic job in making the event such a success.

"I know how hard running a marathon is and therefore would like to wish everyone taking part this year all the best with their final weeks of training and preparation.

"Sorry I won't be joining you on the 26.2 miles.

"Instead, I'll enjoy the view from the Starter's platform!"

On April 10 Cram follows in the footsteps of Ovett who was the official starter of last year's inaugural event.


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