A NUMBER of Worcester roads will be closed for the city's 10K and half marathon.

The runs, along with the junior races take place on Sunday September 17 through the city, with around 4,000 expected to take part.

Road closures along the route will come into effect on a rolling basis from 6am on the day, with all roads, except for those at the start and finish area, open again by 12:30pm.

Race founder and director Steve Cram said: "The Worcester City Run is a major event for the city and provides a fantastic opportunity to showcase the best of Worcester to runners and spectators alike.

"With the addition of the half marathon, this year’s event is going to be bigger than ever and we’re expecting the people of Worcester to come out in force again to cheer on the runners.

"We have to put in place road closures to ensure that all of the races can run smoothly and safely and we have worked hard with Worcester City Council to develop a schedule that causes as little inconvenience as possible.”

Councillor Geoff Williams, vice-chairman of Worcester City Council’s place and economic development sub-committee, added: "We hope that drivers will be patient and understand that events such as the Worcester City Run and the Tour of Britain are very prestigious, and are good for the profile and economy of the city.

"We advise people to plan their routes in advance to avoid the roads which are closed.”

As part of the race, Grandstand Road and Croft Road will remain closed from 6am until 3pm.

Other roads that will be closed for some time between 6am and 12.30pm include The Butts, North Parade and North Quay, Farrier Street, Foregate Street, New Street, Friar Street, College Road, Deansway, Bridge Street and All Saints Road.

Also closed will be Worcester Bridge, Hylton Road, Tybridge Street, New Road, Himbleton Road, Comer Gardens, Fern Road, Oldbury Road, Crown East Lane, Bell Lane, Martley Road and Henwick Road.

In the Diglis area of the city Portland Walk, Mill Street, Diglis Road, Basin Road, Diglis Dock Road, Navigation Road and the Riverside will also be closed.

For full times of road closures, visit worcester.gov.uk/road-closures