Thousands to take part in Leeds Abbey Dash 10k

Runners in last year's Leeds Marathon, which is also managed for Run For All

Thousands of people are to take part in Leeds Abbey Dash 10k on Sunday.

It is the first year the event has been managed by Jane Tomlinson's Run For All, after charity Age UK hosted the race for nearly 40 years.

Becky Major, head of marketing and communications at Jane Tomlinson's Run For All, said the only change was a partnership with England Athletics, which meant elite athletes would be taking part.

She said: "We have some of the top tier athletes, both wheelchair and in the elite field as well. We're very excited to welcome them."

About 12,000 runners and wheelchair racers are expected to set off from Wellington Street in Leeds city centre, racing to Kirkstall Abbey and back again.

Ms Major said Age UK remained the lead partner charity for the event.

"We'll always keep the fundamentals at the core that Age UK have worked so hard on over the last nearly 40 years," she said.

"But our aim is always to grow. So the more participants we can get, the more the merrier. We're very excited to have it in our portfolio."

Run for All is expecting a record number of participants, with many raising money for charity.

Ms Major said: "It has a huge community impact. A lot of people come in from Yorkshire and a lot of people are travelling from afar as well. It is a big event in the running calendar.

"We have a lot of people attending who are trying to get a personal best, but equally people who are running for fun, raising money for charity, fundraising, running with their friends and family.

"We do welcome all abilities and ages to take part. Whether it's individuals or groups, there's always some really inspiring and heart-warming stories."

She advised those taking part to "keep an eye on the weather" as temperatures are forecast to be as low as 2C (35F).

"It might be a bit chilly, so plan accordingly. But all importantly, just have fun," she said.

Road closures are in place for the event, including parking suspensions on Park Place, York Place and Quebec Street.

Roads around Wellington Street will be closed from 04:00 to 15:00 on Sunday, while the A65 will be closed from 08:00 to 12:00.

Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.