Apology after runners sent wrong way during race

Organisers said a record number of runners took part in this year's races

Organisers of Leicester's half marathon and 10km races have apologised after some runners were sent the wrong way as they ran around the course.

A record 5,000 people took part in Run Leicester, which offered both the 13.1-mile (21.1km) half marathon and 10km (6.2-mile) routes, from Victoria Park on Sunday.

However, some runners were sent on a route that took them about 500 metres longer than planned.

Charity LOROS hospice told the BBC it was looking into what happened and would be in touch with those affected to share an explanation.

Jimmy Francis completed the half marathon in just over one hour and 39 minutes

Runner Jimmy Francis, from Coalville, Leicestershire, took part in the city's half marathon for the first time and was part of the group of people who were sent the wrong way.

The 37-year-old, who has been running for about three years, said he was a "huge supporter" of the annual event and thoroughly enjoyed it, adding he would return for the race next year.

However, Mr Francis said it was unfortunate he and a few hundred people were sent down roads that were not closed to traffic.

"Running down London Road, we were meant to turn left on to Charles Street but we were directed straight," he said.

"I don't think anybody actually knew until we joined back on to the course.

"We can't blame the volunteers but maybe they should have been briefed better, and the importance of following the right track and the dangers.

"Overall the event was fantastic and well organised, but the organisers need to review what happened and perform a risk assessment for next year's event."

Mr Francis completed the half marathon in just over one hour and 39 minutes, running through Watermead Park, passing the National Space Centre before running through Abbey Park, up New Walk and finishing back at Victoria Park.

'Accidental detour'

Dozens of runners commented on social media, with many writing that they understood it was a genuine mistake.

One runner said: "A lot of them did a cracking job working out how to get their groups rejoining the race in the shortest possible distance."

Another post read: "I'm sad for everyone who went the wrong way. People gave up their time to stand in the freezing cold for hours so we could run. I'm sure lessons have been learned for signage and clear instructions for marshals."

Another runner said: "I get it can be frustrating if you're after a qualifying time or PB [personal best]. Organisers and volunteers are human and mistakes like this have happened before at races and are going to happen again."

Others said the "accidental detour" was disappointing as many had trained hard to achieve their personal best time.

One runner, who was sent the wrong way, said he had to run "in and out of bollards and street furniture at one point, which could have caused accidents".

However, despite the confusion, many runners praised the volunteers who helped with the race, adding the atmosphere throughout was "incredible".

One runner said: "I went on the wrong route and didn't even realise we did until we joined the main crowd. Marshals and pacers do a great job and, at the end of the day, are volunteering."

Another said: "I really enjoyed today, even the little detour. These things happen and a big shout to all the volunteers who made it happen."

A LOROS spokesperson said: "We're aware that, unfortunately, some runners were directed off the course.

"We're so sorry for the confusion and the disappointment this caused.

"We're looking into exactly what happened and will be in touch with those affected over the next few days to share an explanation.

"Thank you for your patience and understanding and again, our sincere apologies to everyone impacted."