Mixed sentiments over Valencia marathon after deadly floods

Athlete Pau Chisbert decided not to run in this weekend's Valencia marathon because he could not focus on training amid the devastation that hit Spain's third-largest city in recent flash floods.

The decision to go ahead with the race on Dec 1, just a month after the raging waters killed over 200 people, has sparked controversy.

Critics say it is too soon, while businesses are welcoming a tourism boost that could help recovery.

"When you look around, the town you grew up in practically doesn't exist any more. Although your instinct pushes you to run for those four hours to feel like a normal person, your mind's elsewhere," said Chisbert, from the Valencia suburb of Paiporta.

The 30-year-old also said that he hoped those who decided to participate would take some time to visit the affected towns and empathise with victims who had lost so much.