THE triumphant return of the Weymouth Half Marathon will see streets transformed into a race course today as runners battle it out on the hottest weekend of the year so far.

Organisers Just Racing are expecting between 1,000 to 1,200 runners to take part in the much-anticipated event, which has been postponed twice and will finally go ahead with covid safety measures in place.

The event will start between 7.30am and 8am.

Drivers are being warned of disruption as roads are closed - while visitors flock to the resort to soak up the sunshine.

What is the route?

Dorset Echo:

The popular seaside half marathon provides runners with some outstanding scenery, history and the opportunity to set a personal best on a reasonably flat 13.1 mile course.

Runners will take in a historical and scenic tour of Weymouth’s dramatic past and landscape through the town, harbour, sea front, country park and gardens.

The race follows a flat one-lap route along the Jurassic coastline through the spectator-friendly town centre.

Athletes will begin and end the race at the Weymouth Pavilion and will run along The Esplanade and through the town, taking in all the sites Weymouth has to offer.

What safety measures are in place?

Dorset Echo:

The half marathon traditionally attracts crowds of supporters who line the streets of the course to cheer on athletes. However this year organisers have said spectators will not be encouraged due to social distancing measures.

These include a staggered start for runners, more hand sanitisation stations, less contact points and more.

The race had initially been due to take place in September 2020, and was put back until March this year due to the Covid pandemic.

Organisers were then forced to postpone it again when the country was plunged into a third national lockdown.

Dorset Echo:

Alan Rose, director of Just Racing, said: "I am really excited for the event to return, although it is unfortunate in some respects it's not a week later, as we might not have to impose any kinds of restrictions.

"Measures including a staggered start, less contact points, more sanitising stations and face coverings indoors, and spectators are not to be encouraged as we don't want people hanging around after they have finished so we can avoid crowds."

The following roads will be closed:

Dorset Echo: Roads will be closed for the eventRoads will be closed for the event

  • Preston Road closed between Melcombe Avenue and Overcombe Corner mini roundabout (7am – 10am) The signed alternative route for traffic will be via the A353 and the A354
  • The Esplanade closed between King Street (Clock Tower) and Pavilion car park (7am – 1pm)
  • Manned running crossing point on The Esplanade near its junction with Bond Street (7am – 1pm)
  • The Esplanade closed between Alexandra Gardens and Pavilion car park (7am – 1pm) Access to Custom House Quay via Pilgrims Way, exit from Devonshire Place is via Custom House Quay and exit from Pavilion car park is via Custom House Quay
  • Old Castle Road closed northbound between Sudan Road and Belle Vue Road (8am – 11.30am)
  • Maiden Street closed from St. Alban Street (7am – 12pm) Exit via East Street
  • New Street closed from St. Alban Street (7am – 12pm) Exit via East Street
  • St Thomas Street closed between Trinity Road and St Edmund Street (at the town lifting bridge) (7am – 1pm)
  • Manned running crossing point across St. Edmund Street and St. Mary Street (7am – 12pm)
  • Manned running crossing point across Commercial Road at Lower St. Alban Street (7.15am – 1pm)