A well supported race with approximately 4000 runners of all abilities taking part so ideal for a first half. Registration and communication was fine and the race booklet outlined all pre race information. Route was ok, through housing estate, main routes and industrial areas. A little part by the river made it a bit different but nothing to write home about if you’re out for the scenics view. Some pavement areas were crowded and a lot of up n down kerbs. Marshall’s we’re positioned well and a police presence made motorists think twice about driving around runners. The one big issue is the start line as it bottle necks up to about a kilometre. The wide area behind the start quickly narrows which brings runners to a walk as it’s over crowded. Organisers can simply fix this by funnelling BEFORE the start. This killed any momentum and Pb chasers were swerving a lot. This can also be help by better awareness of the runners as a few in fancy dress and run/walkers were not appropriately positioned. Although it’s great the event caters for all as it has a good inclusive feel. Medal and T-shirt are of good quality and water and banana were at the finish. Race entry prices are rapidly increasing as ‘Freedom Leisure’ have taken over from the council. Any more increases will isolate the supportive local running community which the race was built around- they need to be careful.