Some glitz was added to the Manchester Half when local celebrities from Coronation Street, Emmerdale and The Apprentice took to the challenge.

In a ‘Battle of the Soaps’, Coronation Street first timers Elle Mulvaney and Emrhys Cooper took on Emmerdale’s Isabel Hodgins, who was back to beat her time at last year’s event.

While Emrhys and Isabel had their eyes on a sub-2 hour time, Elle Mulvaney was happy to simply enjoy the atmosphere and finish the event. She ended up being awarded the ‘Soap Box’ bath bomb bundle prize – for her great team spirit and completing her first 13.1 miles when things got challenging. Well done Elle, and well done Emrhys for the fastest time and Isabel for hitting her sub-2 hour goal (a PB!)

After reuniting with her family and co-star Emrhys, Elle said she was proud of herself for completing a “tough but rewarding” event and was excited to receive the “cool medal” and ‘Soap Box’ goodies of LUSH bath bombs.

Fellow Corrie star Emrhys Cooper also enjoyed the challenge so much he said: “Running the Manchester Half marathon has been one of the highlights of my year – and I’m officially a Cardio Queen! The energy and support from the city was electric and I’m super proud to support the Alzheimer’s Society which is a cause close to my heart”.

Isabel Hodgins, having taken on the event side-by-side with her partner Adam, said “I found it tough but that meant getting to the finish line and getting my medal all the more special! The atmosphere was amazing I look forward to doing the Manchester Half again!”