THE 2020 Wilmslow Running Festival is almost here.

Sunday, March 15, heralds the iconic Waters Wilmslow Half Marathon and more.

Building on the success of 2019, race organisers have dispensed with tradition and developed to become the Wilmslow Running Festival.

For the second year, the race includes The Stowe Family Law 10k and the Running Bear Fun Run.

The latter is run over just under two miles and packed with stars of the future.

At the centre of the festival is the ever popular half marathon, which includes The Porsche Corporate Challenge.

Rarely do we have on our doorstep a day that unites thousands of athletes, which added to a support crew of hundreds and with spectators in their thousands swells the population of Wilmslow to closer to 10,000 on race day.

Wilmslow will come close to a standstill for a short while, save for the thousands of athletes who will be either racing for medals, or alternatively pounding the streets to support their chosen charities.

Over £1million has been raised for great causes in the last 10 years. The race is organised entirely by volunteers and is a charity itself.

This year the chosen lead charity for the race is The Christie Charity, with the local charity being Supportability.

Races will start at 10.30am with the fun run following 15 minutes later.

There are a limited number of race places still available via wilmslowrunningfestival.org.uk

Race numbers are again up on 2018 and 2019.

The community is at the heart of the day and organisers welcome a festival village at Race HQ – Wilmslow Rugby Club.

This will include real ale, artisan food and coffee. A variety of sports brands will also be there, highlighting the best of Wilmslow.

Race organisers wish to stress:

• Road closures will effect traffic on race day

• Even with roads open, please use alternative routes

• If you are running, car share and get to the start very early

• Where possible travel by train (20 minutes’ walk from the start)

A road closure will be in force covering all roads in the Kings Road / Altrincham Road area, and on the course itself as it winds towards Mobberley before heading back to finish on Morley Road, Wilmslow.