Half-marathon in doubt over flooding concerns

The 10k race and half-marathon are due to take place on the same day

An annual half-marathon race has been thrown into doubt over flooding concerns.

The event is due to take place in Leicester on Sunday despite recent poor weather.

Rainfall had caused part of the half-marathon route to become flooded, but organiser, Run Leicester, said it was expecting to see water levels drop in time for the race.

However, on Friday, Run Leicester gave an update to say more rain, forecast for Saturday, could lead to the half-marathon being cancelled.

A decision on whether the half-marathon can go ahead will be made on Saturday afternoon, Run Leicester said.

'10k race unaffected'

In an email to participants on Friday, the organiser said localised flooding had been reducing but heavy rain forecast for Saturday could lead to water levels rising again.

The flood's "resurgence [on Thursday] in a short section of Watermead Park" had also affected the route, the email read.

It added that if it was cancelled, runners registered for the race would automatically be transferred to a 10-kilometre event, taking place the same day.

The route of the 10k remained unaffected by weather, Run Leicester said.

"We do hope to be able to offer a refund of the difference in price to any affected half-marathon runners, although we will ask that you consider donating the difference to our partner charity, LOROS Hospice.

"More details on that next week," the email read.