The chief executive of the London Marathon has told UK Jewish communal leaders that he “regrets” that the event will coincide with the second night of Passover next year.

Complaints were filed after the dates were announced with many Jewish runner unable to participate - and fundraise for charities - as a result of religious commitments.

Chief executive Nick Bitel said he regretted the impact the decision would have on potential Jewish participation, at a meeting with the leaders of the Jewish Leadership Council, Board of Deputies and charities World Jewish Relief and Maccabi GB.

JLC chief executive Simon Johnson said: “Mr Bitel reiterated that the rollover system would continue to be available, so that Jewish charities which were unable to use their places could roll them forward to the 2017 London Marathon.”

Mr Bitel offered to put charities in touch with the London Marathon’s official agent in Israel in case some places could be made available to Israel-based runners for whom the second day Passover might not be an issue.