FINAL preparations are being made for this year’s Clarendon Marathon from Salisbury to Winchester.

More than 1,000 runners are expected to take part in the annual event on Sunday October 5.

The 26-mile route follows the ancient Clarendon Way between the two cathedral cities, finishing at Kings’ School, Winchester.

Winchester Rotary Club is organising the event with their counterparts in Salisbury.

“It’s tough but runners love it,” said Winchester Rotarian JJ Heath-Caldwell, 55, chairman of the organising committee who will also be running his first-ever marathon at this year’s event.

“People come from all over the country and every year there are a few runners from abroad. The Clarendon Marathon captures the imagination because it is from one historic city to another and so picturesque.”

More than 90 per cent of the route is off road with the trail following country tracks and paths. There will be 500 arrow signs to point runners in the right direction, 250 volunteers to marshal the route and 1,000 bananas to keep energy levels up, donated by Fyffes.

“Runners eat a lot of bananas,” said Mr Heath-Caldwell. In addition to the full marathon, there is also a half-marathon, starting in Broughton and a relay marathon for teams of four.

Advance signs are now in place warning there may be some traffic delays in Broughton, Houghton, Kings Somborne and Farley Mount areas.

The marathon event started in 1998 and has been organised by Rotarians since 2012. Last year, more than £20,000 was raised for charities and good causes chosen by runners.

Among the groups to benefit in the past are Winchester Hospital Radio, Wells for India, Naomi House, Winchester Youth Counselling, Winchester Scouts and Winchester Talking Newspaper. The race is sponsored by the University of Winchester, Shentons Solicitors and mediators and Alton Sports.

Online entries will close on Friday September 26. Registration will be possible on the day with an extra £5 donation to the Rotary Club. For more details see clarendon-marathon.co.uk.