Kenya’s Sumgong falls down and avoids tumble from rogue spectator to win London Marathon

Kenya's Jemima Sumgong in action as security tackle a spectator during the women's raceAction Images via Reuters

The winner of the London Marathon women's elite race, Kenya's Jemima Sumgong narrowly avoided another tumble when a seemingly rogue spectator ran onto the route.

Jemima Sumgong claimed her first marathon win despite falling and crashing her head against the road when she collided with another runner as they approached one of the final drink stations.

After crossing the finish line an emotional and exhausted Sumgong took stock of her achievement

But pictures have emerged showing a man running out onto the route clapping his hands as the Kenyan storms past before she went on to win the race.

It's not clear whether the man, who was dressed in a black jacket and cap, was attempting to sabotage the race or put the 31-year-old off her winning streak.

A marshall in a motorcycle helmet could be seen grabbing the man's arm in a bid to stop him in his tracks.

Met Police confirmed its officers removed a man from the track at about mile 22, which is near Shadwell in South East London, but that no one had been arrested.

London Marathon winner Jemima Sumgong narrowly avoids second tumble with rogue spectator

Sumgong appeared to ignore the drama that was going on around her and went on to storm to a five-second victory ahead of 2015 champion Tigist Tufa after recovering from her fall as she entered the final stages of the race.

Competitors collided as they approached one of the final drink stations around the course, forcing three women to the ground.

Sumgong jumped up and appeared in pain as she clutched her head, but powered through to claim an unprecedented victory.

Her victory means that Kenyans have won the women's main race in five of the past six years.

Elsewhere, Volha Maxuronak of Belarus finished fourth to mark the highest-placed European.

Two-time champ Mary Keitany crossed the line in ninth.