Organisers of the 35th Chester Half Marathon are warning prospective participants to enter now to avoid disappointment.

The Essar-sponsored event will take place on Sunday, May 15, starting at Chester Racecourse.

Joint race director Chris Hulse of Active Leisure Events said: “This highly popular race sells out every year, and runners who leave it to the last minute risk missing out.

“Although the Essar Chester 2016 Half Marathon has 7,000 places to fill there is no doubt that this capacity will be reached.

“Our event sells out and we have to turn lots of disappointed runners away.

“There are several reasons why the demand is so high for this classic race that has built up a solid reputation over the years.

“Firstly Chester Racecourse is a fabulous start venue which provides facilities that the runners and their families really appreciate.

“Then the traffic-free course that takes in the city centre with its iconic landmarks in the early stages, heads out into the countryside to return to a stunning and atmospheric finish in front of thousands of supporters outside the Town Hall and cathedral.

“The race is consistently applauded as one of the best organised and highest quality half marathons in the UK.

“And let’s not forget there’s Chester itself with its cafes, shops and many attractions for the runners and their supporters to enjoy after the race has been run.

“What more could anyone want?”

For more information and to enter the Essar Chester 2016 Half Marathon visit www.chesterhalfmarathon.co.uk.