MORE than 14,000 runners will line the streets for the Sage Reading Half Marathon on Sunday.

Competing for personal bests and causes close to their heart, every person will need to know some essential information before they head to the starting line.

From amateurs to elite runners, the race is always popular with families, with a further 1,500 people due to take part in the Green Park Challenge beforehand.

Judith Manson, race director, said: “The race village is going to be a hive of activity and post-race cheer. We have an incredible race list of new and returning runners and it’s growing by the day.

“Whether it’s your first race or the final few weeks of preparation ahead of the London Marathon, we can’t wait to welcome you to the start line.

“We promise you a race day of rubbing shoulders with Britain’s elite athletes, personal bests, huge finish line high fives and some of the best race bling around.”

As usual, there will be a number of road closures in place and visitors travelling into Reading on the M4 are advised to use junctions 10 and 12 until 2pm to avoid delays.

With last year’s race being cancelled due to snow, competitors will be hungrier than ever to pull up their running shorts and put their training to the test.

The Green Park Challenge will get underway at 8.30am, giving younger runners the opportunity to get involved and pick up a medal of their own after a 3km fun run.

The first wave of half marathon runners will set off at 10.15am and entrants are advised to arrive at Madejski Stadium no later than 9am to begin their walk to the starting line.

Councillor Graeme Hoskin, lead member for Health, Wellbeing and Sport, added: “Sage Reading Half Marathon is recognised as being one of the key annual events for runners nationally and brings huge numbers of visitors into the town.

“However, it is also very popular among enthusiastic amateurs locally, who help raise thousands of pounds for good causes.

“There is always a great atmosphere helped by the crowds of people who line the route to cheer participants. I would encourage residents and visitors to check their journey plans.”

Visit: readinghalfmarathon.com/downloads/SRHM-2019-Race-Guide.pdf for all you need to know.