As the 2024 Welshpool 10k is just days away, nearly 700 runners are preparing to take on the course in the Powys town.

Organizers of this year’s Welshpool 10k, which is scheduled to be held this Sunday (March 24) at 9am, are hoping to create a more streamlined entry for those arriving in town for the start of the race.

Amid the preparation for this year’s event, Alan Lewis of Adrenaline Sporting Events, revealed that the company has paid a fee to allow runners to park for free at Church Street, which they hope will accommodate everyone taking part in the event.

Mr Lewis said: “We’re excited for the event and very much looking forward to it. The weather looks good and we have a stunning backdrop in the form of Powys Castle.

“We’re nearing 700 runners but are still accepting last minute entries for those looking to jump into the challenge.

“We’ve paid a fee to Powys Council to allow runners to park for free at Church Street. We had delays in 2022 and 2023 with machines being slow and causing queues, which led to some frustration. I reported that back to Powys Council but nothing really happened so we’ve now paid the fee on behalf of the runners.

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“We have had positive feedback from those taking part over the gesture, but some have asked why the council isn’t supporting the initiative.

"We wanted to ensure that runners start the event off on the right foot rather than face challenges over something as simple as parking on the day.

“We are confident in putting on a nice event for the town and are thankful to our sponsors and stakeholders for their support, particularly Powys Castle and the National Trust. The castle makes for such a unique centrepiece to the race, which is why it’s even featured on the 10k medals.

“What we want most of all is for every aspect of the 10k to be enjoyable for the runners, from arriving at the race to receiving their medals.”

The 2023 Welshpool 10k run saw over 600 runners take part, with Powys runner Andy Davies winning the event for the second year in a row, crossing the finish line 34 minutes after setting off, just behind his 32 minute winning time for the 2022 race.