Herald Express reporter Jeff Bolitho has completed a sweaty Barcelona Marathon in soaring temperatures to raise money for Asthma UK. Here's his account of the run.

As I trudged through the streets of Barcelona in temperatures of around 70 degrees, I overheard a weary runner remark to his friend: "I thought we weren't doing any more marathons."

I could sympathise with his thoughts as the searing heat began to take its toll, with the finishing line still a distant hope.

Conditions were tough for 'La Marato' in Catalonia, but completing a marathon in one of Europe's most captivating cities was an unforgettable experience.

Nearly 10,000 runners from around the world gathered at the starting line at the Placa D'Espanya, representing nearly 40 different countries.

Spain, France and Germany provided most of the entrants, but runners from Venezuela, Morocco and New Zealand also took part.

As I waited for the race to begin, a sight unfamiliar to Brits greeted me in the sky — the sun.

Normally I welcome some warmth during trips to Spain, but not today.

The 26-mile route took in Barcelona's most famous sights, including the Sagrada Familia, Pedrera, Placa de Catalunya and the Nou Camp football stadium.

They provided a spectacular backdrop to the race and inspired those who were taking part.

The crowds offered plenty of encouragement and shouts of "Bravo" helped to keep us going.

The half-way point was a welcome landmark as the temperature continued to climb.

My legs grew wearier as the 16-mile point was reached, but there is no turning back when you get this far.

Water stops were provided every 5kms (3.1 miles) and each one was eagerly awaited as my battle with the heat continued.

As I gulped down a bottle at 30kms (18.6 miles), the 35kms (21.7 miles) point was the next target for some much-needed rehydration. But as I approached, my worst fears were realised… they had run out.

The sight of hundreds of empty bottles strewn across the streets reminded me that not only had the runners before me drunk all the water, but they were also nearer to finishing. How uncivil.

At 40kms (24.8miles) the water supplies had reappeared, but I knew the end wasn't far away now.

More people had lined the streets to cheer home the runners and the finishing line was a welcome sight.

The feeling of joy and relief as I crossed the line in 5hrs 16mins made it all worthwhile.

No more marathons? You must be joking. They may be 26 miles of pure hell but they're the ultimate running experience and I'm looking forward to the next one. But next time I'll go somewhere colder.

I managed to raise more than £300 for Asthma UK, so many thanks to everyone for their sponsorship and support.

The money will be used to improve the health and well-being of the 5.2m people in the UK with asthma and fund research into the condition.

For more information visit the website
www.asthma.org.uk.