Runners hit the road for annual Reigate race day

The 10k runners set off at 09:00 BST

Thousands of amateur and professional athletes are taking to the streets of Reigate for an annual series of running events.

Runners gathered in the town centre for the 09:00 BST start of the Run Reigate half marathon, while others will take part in events covering 10k (6.2 miles) and 5k.

There will also be a children’s race, over a 1.7k course. All races start and finish in Priory Park.

The organisers of the Run Reigate events on Sunday, which were due to be officially started by Olympic 800m gold medallist Dame Kelly Holmes, say more than 4,000 people have signed up.

Runner Hayley Young with the race director David Kelly

Event director David Kelly said: "This is year 11 of the popular Run Reigate event which has raised in excess of £1.2m for local Surrey and Sussex charities.

"Covid temporarily stopped this event in 2020, but its strong community, charity and inclusivity focus has seen Run Reigate continue to thrive."

Competitor Poppy May with her mum Helen Ghosh

The Event Village, located in the park, includes food and drink stalls for runners and spectators.

The 10k race from 09:00 will be followed by the half marathon at 09:15am and the 5k at 09:20. The children's event starts at 12:00.

Some roads will be closed around the town from 08:00 BST and the last roads will reopen at 13:30.