The LME said the acquisition includes the first major mass-attendance Scottish events to be added to its portfolio.

Both companies were founded in 2006 by Malcolm and Caroline Sutherland.

They will continue to lead the Loch Ness marathon and etape team with support from the LME.

Mr Sutherland said: “We are extremely proud of what we have created at the Loch Ness Marathon, Etape Loch Ness and Inverness Half Marathon over the last 18 years.

“This acquisition is testament to how incredible things have become and it is thanks to the hard work and passion of our amazing team and volunteers, our sponsors, charity partners and stakeholders including the Highland Council, and the Highland community who welcome and cheer us on and welcome participants from around the world every year .”