PLACES are going fast for the 38th Stroud Half Marathon.

Close to 2000 runners are set to pound the roads on Sunday, October 21.

It starts at 9am from Cainscross Road, adjacent to Marling School field.

The race is one of the oldest in the country, and its popularity has been confirmed by race entries which are already ahead of 2017 figures with over two weeks to go. Entries are still available at https://www.stroudhalf.com/ but the race is close to selling out so be quick.

Hosted in a partnership between Stroud and District AC and Immortal Sport Ltd, this year will see athletes follow the proven route, which is by no means flat, but has a tendency to bring out the best in runners. There are a few small climbs, but generally the course is flat and engaging.

The start and finish are both on Cainscross Road, which will be closed to all traffic between 08:00hrs and 12:30hrs. The finish area in Marling School Field is a great place to mingle, and for family and friends to greet their loved ones. There is always a great atmosphere with some lovely refreshments provided by families of Stroud and District AC.

Commentary at the finish line will be provided by a familiar voice from former Forest Green matchday announcer Richard Joyce, who will share with the assembled crowd some interesting tales.

Looking at the entry list there is a strong field likely to be taking the start in both men's and ladies' races.

Phillip Bridge of Wells City Harriers returns to defend his 2017 title, sure to be one of his closest challengers for the win is David Bell of Cirencester AC hoping to improve on his second place in 2017. Whilst Shona Crombie-Hicks from Cheltenham and County Harriers returns to defend her win in 2017.

The race is sure to have some familiar faces for most of those spectating, with almost 25% of the expected 2000 runners from Stroud or Stonehouse. Testament to how health conscious in general the town has become.

Runner with the longest journey is travelling from New Jersey in the United States whilst lengthy trips will be made by runners from Penrith in the north and from Looe in Cornwall to the south. Proof that the race is very well known in the running calendar.

As mentioned previously race entries are still available in very limited numbers, but there are other ways in which you can get involved. Many community groups have come forward to join the team of volunteers including Army Cadets, Lock n Store, The Door Youth Project, and Standish Parish Council. It is the best way to benefit from the energy of the race without consuming too much energy yourself. If you wish to volunteer, please contact the Race Crew at info@immortalsport.com Aside from enjoying being a part of a great team, you will receive a free race entry to the Stroud Half Marathon 2019 for your efforts.

The Uke Stroud band will be entertaining runners in the Nupend Trading Estate section, race organisers are also keen to encourage other local music acts to get involved and benefit from the opportunity to motivate the runners, whilst also showcasing local talent. If you are part of a group, or a solo performer that would like to get involved then please contact info@immortalsport.com.

The race as in previous years takes place on a mixture of closed and open public roads.

Cainscross Road will be closed from the Cainscross roundabout to Homebase traffic signals between 8.30am and 12:30pm

Paganhill Lane downhill to Cainscross Roundabout will be closed between 8:45am and 12:30pm. Uphill will remain open.

Dudbridge Road from Sainsbury’s to Cainscross Roundabout will be closed between 8:45am and 12:30pm. It will re-open only between 09:15am and 09:45am.

Delays can be expected on the Ebley Road and at Horsetrough roundabout, and also on Stonehouse High Street and north onto the Gloucester Road

Standish Lane from the Gloucester Road to the A38 will be closed in both directions between 09:00hrs and approx. 11:30hrs

Grove Lane from the Whitminster Inn to the A419 will be closed in both directions between 09:15hrs and 11:30hrs.

Oldends Lane into Oldends Lane on Nupend Trading Estate will also be closed from 09:15hrs till 11:30hrs.

The full race route, and other important information, can be seen at www.stroudhalf.com

The athletes and the race organisers would like to thank local residents and businesses in advance for considering the athletes as they challenge themselves in Stroud and the surrounding streets, and in many case raising a huge amount of money for some very worthy causes.

Thanks must go to: Gloucestershire Highways, Gloucestershire Police, Marling School, Stroud Army Cadets, The Door Youth Project, and of course our many volunteer marshals.

Thanks also to supporters and sponsors: Thompson First Citroen, Griffiths Marshall, Stag Homes, Glastonbury Spring Water.

Thanks also to: Eventscrew, JPL Sound, Split Second Timing.