Southampton marathon is set to be moved by almost a month for 2026.

Organisers have announced that ABP Southampton Marathon, which celebrated its 10th anniversary this year, will take place on the early May bank holiday weekend next year, moving from its usual slot of the first Sunday in April.

The race, which saw more than 9,000 runners take to the streets this year, will take place on Sunday, May 3, 2026.

Chris Rees, the race director at event organisers Rees Leisure, said that the change in date will give runners the "marathon Monday" off to recover.

Chris said the "atmosphere" was almost unmatched at this year's event.

READ MORE: ABP Southampton Marathon celebrates 10th anniversary

"The vibe was one of the best we’ve had in the last 10 years," he told the Echo.

"I could see people in pubs and parks wearing medals, we had the music going on in the Guildhall Square, there was a real buzz all across the city.

"It’s one of those few days in the city where the whole city comes together."

Chris Rees confirmed to the Echo that the race date would be moving next year.Chris Rees confirmed to the Echo that the race date would be moving next year. (Image: Supplied) ABP Southampton, the event sponsor, has donated £90,000 to mile makers, with each receiving £250 for their communities.

The average age of the marathon runners is 45, and Chris has offered his advice to anyone who wants to give it a go next year.

"It’s never too early to start training" he said.

"If you were motivated on the finish line this year, pop to your local park run and get training. Get some trainers and get yourself started, that's the important

"You don’t have to do a marathon right away, if you come and do the 5k you get that addictive buzz when you finish the line, it all builds from there."

READ MORE: A pig and a unicorn: Some of the best photos from Southampton Marathon

The marathon partnered with Music in the City this year to provide eight stages and live performances throughout the route.

Chris believes a new course record was set for the marathon this year.Chris believes a new course record was set for the marathon this year. (Image: Stuart Martin) Chris said that it was a "really nice combination between the two events" which made the event feel like "more of a festival across the route".

"We think we got a course record for the marathon this year," Chris said.

"The extra music, the extra beat and the extra spectators cheering people on got people ready for it and really up for it."