I wanted to run this race when I came across it, as it's not too far away from where I live. At first glance it's a little different: park the car in Long Eaton, catch the bus to Langley Mill and then run back along the banks of the canal pretty much all the way back to Long Eaton. It seemed like there was potential for things to go wrong, but it was actually a very well-run and organised event.

Particpants were allocated a wave, based on the predicted finish time given on sign-up. From there a bus time was allocated from West Park in Long Eaton to the start, near the Great Northern pub in Langley Mill. Information on what to do on arrival was a little short, but marshalls were on hand to organise the boarding of the bus.  Runners were set off from Langley Mill at 15 minute intervals, a sensible arrangement due to the limited overtaking opportunities along the tow path. This meant the fast runners in the first wave were finishing as the back of the field set off, but that wasn't a major issue. The briefing was first class, probably a bit too much information to take in in one go, but better too much information than not enough. The tow path was open to other users, but everyone I came into contact with was courteous and polite in letting the runners through. There were 4 drinks stations spaced out at regular intervals en route, serving water and energy drinks, meaning that it wasn't really necessary to carry extra water. In order to get the full half marathon distance, a short loop away from the canal and around some woodland as the route gets towards Long Eaton. This was a nice respite from the tow path and was very well marshalled and signed - as was the entire route. Upon reaching Long Eaton, the path climbs a footbridge over the canal, goes through school grounds before coming out in West Park where it finishes at Long Eaton Rugby Club.

There wasn't much in terms of local support, apart from lots of people asking what we were doing! The friendly and supportive marshalls more than made up for this though.  Finishers received a medal and T Shirt. In total, this event cost me £24.96 to enter, plus £4.50 for the bus to the start. In these days of 10k races asking well over £30 to complete - often with extra charges on top - I'd say the Erewash Half represents cracking value for money and would thoroughly recommend it.