Thousands hit Stafford streets running in 29th half-marathon

The event saw more than 2,500 runners set off from Market Square at around 10am yesterday.

Hundreds of of spectators lined the streets to watch and cheer on the runners, with many holding up signs with words of encouragement.

The half-marathon, now in its 29th year, took competitors along countryside roads outside the town, including two steady climbs, before returning to the Market Square via Victoria Park.

Meanwhile, families took part in the one-mile fun run in the town centre. The event also saw giant figures on stilts and many donned fancy dress.

Craig Gibbons, aged 38, his wife Dawn, 39, and their six-year-old daughter Zoe took part in the fun run wearing clown outfits.

Gas engineer Mr Gibbons, of Wolseley Road, Stafford, said: "It's fun and it gets the kids active.

"We've been coming for six years. It's a lovely family atmosphere."

Chairman of the marathon association, Dave Lovell, aged 54, of Milton Grove, Stafford, said the group was hoping to raise £3,000 for three separate military charities.

He said: "We did the route twice in training and we've had brilliant support for our fundraising. There's a brilliant atmosphere. It gets better every year."

John Deeks, 25, of Waverley Crescent, Halesowen, ran the 13-mile course with friends and raised almost £700 for blood cancer charity Cure Leukaemia.

Also taking part were 17 supporters of the Support Stafford Hospital group, which is campaigning against plans to downgrade hospital services.

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