EVESHAM Vale Running Club have been busy making preparations for the Evesham Town 10k on Sunday, July 7.

Now in its 12th year, the popular race attracts runners from across the Midlands with both novices and seasoned athletes testing themselves on the 10km course.

This year the route makes a welcome return to the town centre for the start.

“We wanted to improve the experience for the runners by giving them closed roads through the town when they begin the race,” said race director Sam Townsend.

“The new course should also be faster which is great for those who want to to try and run a new personal best.”

The runners will pass many of the town’s famous sights such as The Almonry, Workman Bridge, Abbey Park, the riverside path and then under the Bell Tower towards the end of the race.

Other improvements include using Vegware compostable cups in place of plastic bottles at the water stations and the finish line.

The event is being supported by Purr Home Services and will raise money for Wallace House Community Centre towards a coffee lounge area and new television.

There will also be free children's fun runs on Crown Meadow with events for all ages up to 16.

Road closures will affect Bridge Street, Vine Street, Abbey Road, Boat Lane, Merstow Green, Bewdley Street, Albert Road and Rudge Road from 9.30am until 11am on July 7.

Runners can sign up for the race at evesham10k.co.uk or in person at Birdseye Sports in Evesham on Thursday, July 4, from 6.30pm until 7.30pm.