RUNNERS have gathered to mark the official launch of the newly revived Slough half-marathon.

After an 18-year hiatus, the race is set to return on October 14, beginning and ending in Salt Hill Park, where the launch event took place on Monday.

Speaking at the event, Cllr Rob Anderson, cabinet member for environment and leisure at Slough Borough Council said: “It’s all part of the plan to get our leisure facilities as good as they can be, to get people out there and active.

“We want to get as many people as possible, for the marathon and the 5k fun run. This is for the marathon runners, but it’s also about getting new runners in. It’s an inclusive event.”

Speaking in reference to the Slough Horticultural Show, which is also due to return later this year, Cllr Anderson said: “It’s quite appropriate that these things are returning this year, as it was 80 years ago that Slough got its charter. It’s like we’re picking the best bits of those 80 years.”

One runner, James Butcher, 78, of Prince Andrews Way, North Ascot, brought with him his 11 medals from the previous races in the town, ranging from 1989 to 2000. Mr Butcher, a member of the popular Datchet Dashers running club, said: “I first came here in 1952. I used to train in the park. In 1992, I got into the London Marathon – I’ve done ten of those.”

Also there were members of Slough Parkrun, and representatives of the events chief sponsors, leisure centre operators Everyone Active and construction firm Morgan Sindell. The event also marked the opening of the registration website for the event. Registration costs are £30, although a £5 ‘Early Bird’ discount currently applies to those who sign on before May 1. SBC is also looking for volunteers to help staff the event.

To register, visit: www.slough.gov.uk/leisure-parks-and-events/slough-half-marathon.aspx