Marathon des Sables runners say organisers failed in duty of care

Exclusive: some competitors say they feared they would die in 56C Sahara heat during six-day 250km race

It is billed as the toughest footrace on Earth", the equivalent of five and half marathons in stifling desert heat.

But runners at the Marathon des Sables have accused organisers of failing in their duty of care by letting the event go ahead in exceptionally high temperatures, and after a stomach bug swept through runners, as well as medical and support staff.