Half marathon will showcase area - mayor

A town's mayor said an upcoming half marathon would help showcase the area.

More than 1,500 people have signed up for the 13.1-mile (21.1km) running event around Kettering.

The race will take place on 9 March, with the route starting at Wicksteed Park, before winding through the town centre, passing Boughton House, before returning via Hanwood Park.

Craig Skinner, the Northamptonshire town's mayor who will also run the course, said: "It's going to introduce a lot of people to Kettering and show off all the best bits of our area, and I hope people turn out to cheer everyone on."

A shorter 5km (3.1-mile) option, which takes in the town centre and ends back at Wicksteed Park, has also been organised for less experienced runners.

Entry to the half marathon costs £32, which includes chip-timed results, post-race refreshments, free official event photographs and a medal.

At the market place, ISM Music Academy will also put on live music.

Some road closures are due to be in place during the event.

Mr Skinner added: "We are so pleased with how many people have already signed up to run. I hope that everyone will come out to cheer us on – it makes all the difference when you are running to hear some support."

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