IT is not all about the half marathon tomorrow, there are the two-mile and five-mile alternatives also taking place, each with their own set of volunteers.

Syd Pycroft, 60, of The Mall in Old Town, was roped into helping marshal the five-mile multi-terrain race by his wife Sue, who has been managing Swindon Half Marathon’s public relations.

The self-employed ground engineer admits he has very little involvement with any kind of sports, but is looking forward to enjoying some autumn sunshine and ensuring those running are shown the right way.

“It’s all helping the community and making sure these events are successful. I’m not a runner myself. It’s a way of helping out people to make sure people have an enjoyable time,” he said.

As one of the race marshals, Syd can expect to do a lot of waiting around before and after the runners come through, but he plans to take along a book or simply cogitate, as he puts it.

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