All you need to know about Bridgnorth 10k

About 500 runners will set off at 11:00 BST from Bridgnorth Town Hall

Runners in a Shropshire town's tenth 10k will race a new route for the first time on Sunday.

Bridgnorth's sold-out event starts and finishes at the Town Hall, with 500 entrants pounding the hilly streets from 11:00 BST.

Organisers said this year's route would avoid the river and introduce fresh elements, such as timed climbs.

Race director Vicky Morris said: "We want to improve the race year-on-year to enhance the race experience."

Where does the new Bridgnorth 10k route go?

The race takes an undulating path around the historic market town, taking in the castle ruins and offering views of the River Severn.

It starts and finishes as before on High Street, but this year bypasses riverside Friar's Field to avoid the risk of flooding.

Instead, runners will take in picturesque Cartway then go on to Castle Walk before completing a lap of St Leonard's Church.

"I think we've actually changed it for the better," said Ms Morris, from Bridgnorth Running Club.

"Hopefully people appreciate the beauty of [Cartway] as they're running up it... It is undulating, but there are some lovely downhill stretches."

The 10k race starts and finishes at Bridgnorth's Town Hall on High Street

What else is different about this year's Bridgnorth 10k?

Organisers said the 6.22-mile route had been officially measured by UK Athletics for the first time, so serious runners could better evaluate their performance.

Two timed sections have also been introduced on the steepest parts of the course, at Cartway and Railway Street.

Those who run the fastest here qualify for prizes and the accolade of Cartway Conqueror or Railway Street Rocket.

Ms Breakwell said: "We believe these timed sections will add a full element, as well as be an extra incentive for climbing those hills when the going gets tough."

The hilly course will include timed climbs for the first time in 2024

What roads are closed during the Bridgnorth 10K?

Some routes will be closed for several hours, with others temporarily shut to allow runners to pass.

The High Street will close to traffic between 08:00 and 14:00 BST, organisers said.

There will also be restricted access to roads including Whitburn Street, Church Street and East and West Castle Street.

A list of closures and restrictions has been published by Shropshire Council.

Vicky Morris from Bridgnorth Running Club, pictured right with Nicky Green from Severn Hospice, said all race profits would go to the charity

What can Bridgnorth 10k runners expect at the end?

All finishers will get a souvenir t-shirt, drink bottle and medal, with prizes going to the first, second and third-placed men and women overall.

There will also be prizes for winners in a number of age categories, as well as the hill challenges.

All race profits will be donated to Severn Hospice, a local charity providing palliative and end-of-life care.