Students at the University of East London are set to take place in a work experience placement with a difference – providing support to London Marathon runners.

Sports therapy and physiotherapy students will be working for four different charities tomorrow, offering treatment to participants.

Michael Cole, senior lecturer in sports therapy, said it provides a wonderful real-world learning experience.

He said: “Working at the largest sporting event in the world is incredible for our students as they get real experience giving runners post-race recovery advice and soft tissue therapy.

“They get to be part of an unforgettable day and we’re proud to be supporting four charities this year.”

Programme leader for physiotherapy, Liz Nicholls, added: “For the students, it is a challenging but rewarding experience to be part of such an expert medical team and have the opportunity to interact with the many thousands of runners crossing the finish line.”