For any keen runners who have entered the London Marathon ballot, the wait is almost over!

From Wednesday (September 30), the 247,069 applicants for the London Marathon 2016 will find out if they have been successful in the ballot and have a place in the race on Sunday April 24 of next year.

The record number of hopefuls applied for a place through the ballot after the decision was made to keep the application process open for five days.

More than 55% of the applications were from people who have never run a marathon and more than 42% of the applicants were women.

Everyone who has won a place in the ballot will receive a confirmation and magazine through the post. Unsuccessful applicants will receive either a magazine or will be emailed an e-zine.

Every applicant in the ballot, whether they are successful or unsuccessful, will be sent a link for a free download of the full Digital Virgin Money London Marathon when it is launched later this year, which will be available on iPhones or iPads.

Event director of the London Marathon, Hugh Brasher, said: "We know that there will be a huge number of disappointed people and therefore decided to give everyone who applied a free download of the Digital London Marathon when it's available later this year.

"I'd also remind everyone that there is still a chance to gain a place in the 2016 race by fundraising for a charity. Charities with places available are listed on our website."

Runners in this year's (2015) London Marathon raised more than £54.1 million for charity, setting a new record for an annual single-day charity fundraising event for the ninth successive year.

Not entered the ballot? Here are some other ways you can enter to run the London Marathon.