August 26 2004: THE SWINDON half marathon is shaping up to be an event to remember. Organisers are in the process of deciding what the prizes will be for those who cross the finish line first.

And the categories have just been decided, with runners being split into junior men and women, senior men and women, and veterans.

Individual prizes will also be given to winners of the over 50s category and the over 60s group.

The full list of prizes is expected to be unveiled soon.

The 13-mile run is hosted by the Evening Advertiser, Swindon Council and the Nationwide Building Society.

Interest in the race, which is to be held in and around Liddington and Wanborough on Sunday, October 17, has now spread beyond Wiltshire.

There will also be a 4.3-mile fun run and a two-mile jog for youngsters.

Michelle Leighton, of Nationwide, said: "So far there have been about 500 applications, and entries for the other two races are starting to increase as well now. So everything is going really well.

"Since the race was advertised in Runners' World magazine we've started to attract runners from outside the area from places such as Coventry, Leicester and London. This is really very encouraging.

"And there's still plenty of time for people to get their entries in and get fit enough to do the run."

The event, which has not been held since 1988, will raise funds for Age Concern Swindon, Macmillan Cancer Relief, NSPCC and the GWR Community Trust.

Participants will each receive a medal and T-shirt.

For an application form call 01793 464751 or visit www. swindonhalfmarathon.co.uk.

The closing date is October 4 and applications will not be taken on the day.

The cost is: half marathon £12 or £11 for running club members; 4.3 mile fun run £5; two-mile fun run £3.

A 50p reduction is available on production of a Swindon Card.

For more information call the race director, Peter Robinson, on 07786 020969.

Emma-Kate Lidbury