Thousands expected at town's half marathon

Northampton is gearing up to welcome hundreds of runners to its annual half marathon.

The Amazing Northampton Run takes place on Sunday and last year it attracted a record 1,700 competitors.

This will be the fourth time it has taken place and the 13.1-mile (21.1km) loop starts and finishes in the Market Square, taking in The Guildhall and Franklin's Gardens along the route.

As well as the half marathon, there is a relay race and a 5km (3.1-mile) fun run on the day.

The half marathon and relay are due to start at 09:30 BST, with the 5km starting at 09:45.

Keith Holland-Delamere, chair of the community services committee at Northampton Town Council, said: "The event is much more than just a race, as it brings thousands of spectators into town, raises money for local charities and encourages community engagement, with volunteers, music and cultural performances lining the route."

Mobile toilets are being provided at the town's Racecourse park, which is at the halfway point of the route.

The council said feedback from previous participants highlighted a lack of toilet facilities as a "challenge".

Event director Simon Hollis said: "The Amazing Northampton Run is now in its fourth year and we've developed the event as a result of feedback we receive, to improve the experience for all runners and make sure as many people as possible can participate."

The event is also supported by the Northampton Town Centre BID, and West Northamptonshire Council which have helped fund the costs associated with road closures in the town for the day.

Spectators can enjoy good viewpoints at the halfway point in The Racecourse, at the Picturedrome venue near the finish, and at Abington Park about one-mile from the finish, organisers advised.

Road closures start at about 08:30 but key access roads to major car parks will remain open, including Towcester Road and Bedford Road.

There are large capacity car parks on Commercial Street, Grosvenor, St Michael's, Upper Mounts, Midsummer Meadow, and St John's.

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