LIVERPOOL’S first marathon in 20 years is under threat, just days after its launch was announced.

The Daily Post can reveal that the council’s preferred organisers, Limelight Sports, are running a race 175 miles away in London on the same day.

The hiccup has cast doubts over whether Liverpool’s race will go ahead.

The council is currently understood to be looking at all options to rescue the marathon, which had been tipped to generate £3m for the local economy.

A Liverpool Council spokesman confirmed last night: “Liverpool Council is in talks with an event organiser regarding logistical issues around the delivery of a marathon.

“But as the procurement procedure has not been finalised regarding this event, it would be inappropriate to comment any further at this stage.’’

Limelight Sports said it was unable to comment.

In September, it was revealed the company had been chosen as the council’s preferred bidder and were due to be confirmed as the organisers for the race earlier this month.

The decision was due to be ratified by the council’s cabinet on Friday, October 1 and a press release was sent out announcing the upcoming decision.