Chris Evans has said hitting a real wall would have been more comfortable than hitting the wall of exhaustion during the London Marathon.

The Radio 2 DJ completed the 26.2-mile run to raise money for Children In Need.

The keen runner told the BBC it was harder than ever before, saying: “I’m heavier and it’s hotter than in previous years.”

Chris Evans out for a run
Chris Evans (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

He added he had been hoping to finish in four and a half hours but missed his target after hitting “the wall” 18 miles in, saying: “Hitting a real wall is probably not as uncomfortable.

“But it’s a beautiful day and the crowd is better than ever.”

However, the TV personality encouraged other people to take on the challenge, saying: “I love it, if you ever get the chance you should do it, anyone can.

“I only started three years ago and it’s the best thing you will ever do.”

A host of famous faces have donned their lycra for the arduous endeavour for good causes, including pop band Scouting For Girls, who are running for Alzheimer’s Society and EastEnders star Adam Woodyatt, who is running for the Air Ambulance Service alongside his 19-year-old son Sam just months after the teenager was hit by a car.

Before the race, Adam shared a photo on Instagram of the duo on the bus on the way to the start with other runners.

TV presenter Jenni Falconer and model Ashley James are running for Cancer Research with Ashley tweeting from the course:

Jenni shared a photograph on Instagram after the race, showing herself enjoying a drink with her medal around her neck.

She wrote: “After……. and relax!

“Marathon #6 completed in 4:00:45. What a brilliant day.

“Thank you to all the good luck messages and support from the crowd.

“As always, @londonmarathon brings out the best in the capital and I loved it. (Although enjoying it even more now it’s over!)

“Congratulations to everyone who took part-see you next year???”

Olympic gold medallist James Cracknell finished the marathon in less than three hours.