AFTER the success of its first ever 10K race, it has been confirmed "perfect" Worcester will host the event for another two years - with the possibility of "one or two well-known names" taking part.

The decision has been greatly received by all quarters, after thousands turned out for the event, which shows "Worcester has arrived".

Plans were in place for Worcester to host the event for three years, but the success of Sunday's race has sealed the deal.

Steve Cram, whose company Events of the North delivered the event, said: "We were confident the people of Worcester would make this an event to remember and they delivered.

“We wanted to stage races here as part of our ambitions to get people active, and that coupled with the picturesque nature of the city made it a perfect venue. It was the perfect venue to race across.

"We had a three year plan for Worcester with the 10K to bring this event up to scratch, but it was amazing, which left no doubt Worcester is the venue for the next two years.

"I already knew Worcester is a beautiful, scenic city with lovely people as my daughter attended school in Malvern.

"The support from everyone taking part, spectators and the media has been absolutely great all the way through this and massively appreciated.

“To have Paula Radcliffe return to action here has made it extra special as well, and there may well be one or two well-known names in the athletics world coming to Worcester for future events."

Mayor of Worcester, Alan Amos, handed out awards at the event, and says the city is on the up.

"Worcester is on the up, and this on top of the Tour of Britain, shows Worcester has arrived as we were picked ahead of cities like Manchester and Birmingham.

"We must now look on making next year's event even better to ensure we continue to compete with major cities.

"It's an exciting time for this city. We were once considered a hidden gem, but now this city is being showcased under the national spotlight, which is great" he said.

Sunday's event has also brought economic benefits for the city.

Adrian Field, of Worcester BID, said: "This drew people into the city from all over.

"The pubs and cafes of Worcester have done well out of this event, as the road closures didn't effect trade too badly.

"The fact Worcester has it for another two years is fantastic, which will undoubtedly benefit the city economically.

"I have no doubt even more people will come next year, which is nothing but good news for traders, and the city itself."

Duncan Sharkey, Managing Director of Worcester City Council, which sponsored the event, said: “With thousands of people taking part or lining the streets to watch, the Worcester 10k event was a great way of showcasing our great city to the nation.

"We’re now looking forward to it being bigger and even better next year.”