CHARLOTTE Purdue’s hopes of a top 10 finish in the marathon at the World Championships were dashed, as she was one of the 28 runners of the 68 starters forced to withdraw.

Despite the race being put back to midnight it started in temperatures at 90 degrees Fahrenheit and 70 per cent humidity.

The marathon was six 7km loops of the Corniche in the Qatar capital Doha.

Hook’s Purdue, the third fastest British female marathon runner in history, was forced to end her challenge, just after completing three loops of the course.

Kenya's Ruth Chepngetich won the gold in a time of 2 hours 32 minutes 43 seconds.