Up and running

The firm is co-ordinating the event in partnership with Swindon Council and the Evening Advertiser.

It will be the first time in 20 years that a running event on this scale has been held in the town the last marathon took place in 1990.

The run, which takes place on October 17, has been resurrected in aid of the Swindon charities Age Concern Swindon, NSPCC Swindon, Macmillan Cancer Relief and the GWR Community Trust.

As well as the half marathon there will also be a 4.3 mile fun run for the less energetic and a two mile jog for youngsters.

Nationwide spokeswoman Michelle Leighton, who ran the London marathon in four hours, three minutes, will be running in the 13-mile race.

She said: "Nationwide is delighted to be sponsoring the first Swindon half marathon. We believe it will be an event the whole community can get involved in, no matter what their age or fitness.

"There's plenty of time to train for the event people should do a proper programme, starting with gentle exercise and building up gradually.

"Runners in Swindon usually have to go out of town to take part in an event like this. People are getting excited that they'll have an event in their own town. We hope it will become a regular run.

Race director Peter Robinson said: "The half marathon is for serious runners but the fun runs mean there is something to suit everybody.

"We are trying to encourage people to be more active but have fun as well."

The half marathon is a challenging, hilly course through scenic countryside over the Wiltshire Downs. The 4.3 mile fun run takes in Coate Water Country Park, while a two mile run through Broome Manor Golf Course and Hodson Wood is suitable for children under 11 with an adult.

For more information call 01793 464754 or visit www. swindonhalfmarathon.co.uk, where a downloadable application form can be found.

The closing date for entries is October 4.

Bhavani Vadde