HUNDREDS of runners were spurred on with cheers as they completed a tough sporting event in Weymouth.

Supporting Weldmar Hospicecare, more than 1,000 runners took to the streets in the third Weymouth Half Marathon yesterday.

Participants were taken on a historical and scenic tour of the town's past and landscape – including along the beach road to Overcombe and down the Rodwell Trail to Ferrybridge. 

It is seen as a warm up for bigger events, such as next month's London Marathon.

The course was altered this year so runners didn't go across the causeway to Portland, and hold up traffic as they cross the beach road.

Race organiser Alan Rose of Just Racing said the event had been reviewed after last year to provide the best course.

Speaking at the event Mr Rose congratulated all the participants and hailed the event a success.

He said: "Well done to all of our runners this year. It was a fantastic turn out."

Wendy Clarke, 46 and from Weymouth, completed the run in just over two and a half hours.

Speaking yesterday, she said: "It was tough, especially around Lodmoor, but it feels so good to have completed it. 

"I'm quite impressed with my time. I set a goal at the beginning of the year, like everyone does, to do more exercise and to get back into running and I've stuck by that. 

"It has been such a good atmosphere and I'm thrilled that so many people came out in the rain to cheer us on.

"I'm going straight home for a long hot bath and will be putting my feet up for the rest of the day I think."

In its previous two years the event has seen competitors ranging from 17 to 80 – and this year was no different.

And for those who didn't feel ready to for the half marathon as an individual there was an option to complete it as a relay team. 

Signs were put up by Dorset County Council warning of road closures while First Dorset notices were at bus stops informing passengers of diversions.