People on half marathon route offered free entry

People living along the route of a new half marathon are being offered free entry to take part, as an apology for any disruption.

The race in Kettering, Northamptonshire, is expected to feature 2,500 runners and will see residents in the town affected by road closures.

Organisers Run Through and Kettering Town Council said anyone directly affected could run for no fee.

Craig Skinner, mayor of Kettering, said: "The road closures have been designed to offer minimal disruption." The event is due to take place on 9 March.

The route will start at Wicksteed Park before winding through the town centre, passing Boughton House, before returning via Hanwood Park.

"We hope people will come out and support the runners along the route," Mr Skinner, who is running the race himself, said.

The free entry offer is open to anyone directly affected, including those living in properties at Ise Lodge, Hanwood Park and Warkton, organisers said.

Rob Sullivan, head of operations at Run Through, said it was "a token of our appreciation of your understanding of the slight disruptions caused by this event".

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

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.

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