Clowns to the left

It's that time of year again - London Marathon weekend. To think it started as a sacred, elite sporting event attracting world-class athletes. Until one day when somebody decided: "I know what, I'll go dressed in a tutu" and it fast became a runner's Brazilian carnival.

But the large number of costumed runners also means it is the world's largest fundraising event. Which is odd because generally the Brits give far less to charity than other countries. So what is it about a Justgiving.com page (a sort of fundraising MySpace) that encourages such generosity?

And whilst we ponder that British peculiarity, let's also race on to the 31st edition of City Slicker's "Week's Action, Weekend Reaction."

1) Shocked at news that a famous Banksy has been painted over by Transport for London cleaners? React by embracing art's inescapable commercial intent with Andreas Gursky's powerful images of capitalism's grandeur. White Cube Mason's Yard. 25-26 Mason's Yard, SW1. Until 5 May. Tues-Sat 10AM-6 PM.

2) Disheartened to hear that one of the best music venues in London, the Spitz, will close its doors in less than 6 months to be turned it into yet another gastropub? React by first signing the petition to save the Spitz and then booking up for a gig at this weekend's Festival of the Blues. 109 Commercial Street, Old Spitalfields Market, E1. 0207 392 9032.

3) Missed Pete Doherty's secret Camden Crawl gig? React by enjoying a good knees up at an unpretentious indie/ disco/ house music night in Vauxhall - expect everything from Chicks on Speed to The Klaxons, and, er, Chas n Dave! Saturday. 9pm-6am Secret location. Vauxhall, SE11. £5. 020 7701 1500.