Stafford 10k: Find out which roads are closed during town centre race

Some roads are closed for parts of the morning as the race makes its way around the town centre.

The race started in Broad Street at 10.30am with most affected roads expected to be back open within an hour of the race starting and the last road set to reopen at 1pm (see map below).

Local residents were expected to line the route up to the finish line in Market Square where the first runners were likely to arrive just after 11am. The prizegiving will take place there at 11.30am.

This event is organised Stafford Borough Council’s leisure partner, Freedom Leisure.

More than 50 volunteers from local organisations including Stafford TriClub, Katharine House Hospice Supporters Group and Stafford Raynet Group help out on the race day with everything from lead cyclists who direct the runners to radio communications out on the 10km course.

Among those taking part in the event this year is Pc Claire Bond, who broke both her legs when she was mown down and crushed against a fence by a drug dealer who she tried to stop driving into runners during last year's race.

Pc Bond is raising money for the Care of Police Survivors charity and will be accompanied by her husband Darren and Pc Dave Mullins, who pulled her to safety last year.

Liz Hulse from Freedom Leisure, and race director for the Stafford 10K, said: “The team is looking forward to seeing the runners achieve their goals and make new memories as they run under the finish gantry in Market Square on Sunday.

“We hear so many amazing stories from the runners at these events about how being more active really has changed their lives and improved their mental and physical wellbeing.

"I would like to thank all the residents of Stafford borough for their cooperation during the event road closures that have to be in place to make sure everyone enjoys a safe experience and, most of all, for their fantastic support along the 10K route and in the town centre – the atmosphere is amazing.

"It’s great to see the whole community come together.”

Councillor Carolyn Trowbridge, cabinet member for leisure, said: “The Stafford 10K has gone from strength to strength since its inception in 2016 and has proved to be a really popular addition on the annual sporting calendar.

"The health and wellbeing of our residents is a priority for the council and it is encouraging to see how many first time runners take part.

"The run is often a great springboard to go on and enter similar races or attempt longer distances such as our very popular half marathon.

"I am sure all the runners will appreciate the fantastic support they receive from friends and family who line the route to cheer everyone on.”

Due to demand a limited amount of places will be available on race day from 8am to 9.30am in Market Square; on the day entry for non-affiliated runners is £24 and for affiliated runners £22.