Thousands to join big run
Thousands of people were today gearing up for Stafford Half Marathon with just two days to go.
A record 2,000 runners are tackling the 13-mile course this weekend as the 'Stafford Half' celebrates its 25th birthday.
Among them will be Stafford's 'running paramedic' Ray Edensor, who today told everyone taking part to "just enjoy it".
The 50-year-old is set to run his 25th half marathon in a row on Sunday, all in an airtight decontamination suit, as part of a world record attempt.
He said: "The main thing is to go out there and have a good time. There's all this doom and gloom about at the moment but if we can get 2,000 people with smiles on their faces, things can't be that bad."
Runners will also be helped along by a welcome bout of bright weather. Forecasters say spring will finally be in the air this weekend, with temperatures set to reach 57F (14 C) on Sunday.
Although all the places for the main event were booked up weeks ago, places are still available in the Fun Run part of the event.
The Fun Run is one mile long and is made up of two laps around a town centre course.
The race sets off from the Market Square at 10.40am but anyone wishing to enter on the day should register before 10.15am in the marquee which will be set up in the Market Square.
For more details visit the website www.staffordbc.gov.uk
