Road closures planned as runners gear up for race

Nearly 1,600 runners are expected to take part

Nearly 1,600 runners will take part in the Shrewsbury Half Marathon this weekend with road closures planned as the race progresses along the 13-mile route.

Shropshire was hit by heavy rain and flash floods but race organiser Joe Williams said the weather had not affected plans for Sunday.

“We don’t mind running through a puddle or two, so at the moment, we’re looking good,” he said.

He said it was the second year that the half-marathon would follow a new town centre route.

The race "showcases" Shrewsbury highlights including the Welsh Bridge

“We’re really lucky. Obviously, I’m biased, being a local lad, but Shrewsbury’s beautiful. Our route hugs the river, so it takes in all the best parts of the town… it’s a lovely, lovely route.”

Mr Williams said the race was being staged with the help of more than 150 volunteers.

Partners include Barnabas Community Church and Shrewsbury Food Bank, and local charities stepped up to host water stations.

He said: “If you’re a runner, or a spectator, or you’re a driver, and you see any of our marshalls on Sunday, give them a big thank you because they’ve really made a big difference.”

Two races are taking place on Sunday, the Pareto FM Shrewsbury Half & Metric Half Marathon 2024, starting and finishing at the West Mid Showground.

The routes showcase Shrewsbury’s highlights including the Welsh and English bridges, Kingsland, Porthill, Coleham, The Quarry, Frankwell, and the picturesque town centre with its medieval buildings and unique street names, the race website said.