Runners limber up for half marathon

Up to 1,700 runners have entered the race, which starts at 9am on Sunday from the Greenhous West Mids Showground on Berwick Road.

Runners will make their way from the showground and in to the historic heart of the town, taking on Wyle Cop before heading out over the English Bridge to run a loop in the Kingsland estate.

They then head out to run the second half of the race in the Shropshire countryside before finishing back in the showground where each competitor will pick up a medal, tech t-shirt and goodie bag.

Organised by UKRunChat, who took over the running of the half marathon in 2016, the race attracts runners from around the world. A number are flying in from New Zealand, Australia, Italy and Portugal and several are travelling from London and Edinburgh.

Members of running clubs and individuals take part in the race which some have said is the most beautiful half marathon in the region. A number of runners will be returning to the town to compete in the race after successfully completing last year's event.

More than 120 volunteers will be manning the route and there will be four water stations and marshalls to ensure that the event runs smoothly.

Joe Williams, from UKRunChat, said: "It is going to be a warm one, so runners should come prepared with a sun hat and sunscreen. We are really looking forward to Sunday's event. Entries are five per cent up on last year and we have got lots of local charities represented including The Harry Johnson Trust, Hope House, Severn Hospice and Shrewsbury Town in the Community.

"We are very, very pleased with the entries and the support from local running clubs has been fantastic."

As part of the warm up events, a local DJ will be playing and the starting horn will get the runners underway on the 13.1mile course. A race village will be set up at the showground with physios offering pre and post-race massages, running club gazebos, face painting for the kids, cage football and a bouncy castle.