THE organisers of the MBNA Chester Marathon, to be held on Sunday, October 9, have unveiled the final route for the 2011 event.

Race director Andy White said: “The spectacular route for our 2011 marathon is both historic and scenic.

“We expect some very quick times over this fast course on closed roads. It’s an ideal setting for runners looking for a personal best time.”

Runners leave Chester Racecourse and head around into the city centre, passing the town hall, cathedral, Rows, Eastgate Clock, amphitheatre and through the Walls four times before heading out of the city across the Old Dee Bridge.

The route then leaves Chester past the Duke of Westminster’s estate before crossing the border into Wales and the villages of Lavister and Rossett.

Keeping to the flat and rural lanes, runners will complete a small loop before entering Holt then crossing the bridge to Farndon and England and the home stretch.

On re-entering the city, runners pass by the River Dee along the Groves and Castle Drive for a finish at the racecourse.

Andy of Active Leisure Events said: “With the superb base at Chester Racecourse and a grandstand finish ensuring a big race atmosphere, this year’s MBNA Marathon promises to be a major sporting event.”

For further information and details of how to enter the MBNA Chester Marathon, visit www.chestermarathon.co.uk.