THERE’S barely 48 hours to go until the start of the sixth Swindon Half Marathon on Sunday.

Organisers have received a late flurry of entries after the closing deadline was extended last weekend.

A total of 1,692 runners have entered the 13-mile challenge which starts outside the Nationwide headquarters in Pipers Way at 11am. That’s 163 entries down on 12 months ago.

The race takes the field on a rural, as well as sometimes hilly route, out towards Badbury, Wanborough and Liddington, before heading back along Marlborough Road to the finish.

There will also be a five-mile multi-terrain race starting at 11.10am which ventures out on a circular route around Coate Water, again starting and finishing in Pipers Way.

Last night, there were 310 entries, slightly down on last year, but with runners allowed to enter on the day – unlike the half marathon where entries are closed, organisers are hoping to top this figure.

If you wish to enter the multi-terrain race then entry on the day will cost you £11.50 when you will need to register at the Nationwide Pavilion from 8am to 10.30am.

Entries are also being accepted on the day for the two-mile fun run, which starts at 11.20pm. The cost is £6 and so far 379 runners have entered the junior event.

“So far everything is going really well,” said Cathy Caulfield, the funding and communications officer with Swindon Borough Council’s leisure services department.

“Even the weather forecast is looking good with the weather set fair for 13 degrees.

“Everything is in hand with arrangements. Race packs are still going out, but because of the extended deadline some runners may not have received their numbers and timing chips.

“If runners don't receive their race packs then they shouldn't worry. They can pick up a replacement number on Sunday at the Nationwide Pavilion, but remember to leave lots of time.”

Race organisers have tried to add an extra musical dimension to Sunday’s race.

Swindon Brass will be playing at the top of Pipers Way, while the group Black Canvas, featuring Ami Kaelyn, will be playing in the car park at the Sun Inn at Coate. The pub will be open from 9am on race day serving teas and coffees.

For spectators, this is also a great cheering point.

Other good spectator points are along Marlborough Road, where spectators will be able to see runners taking part in all three places.

also There tends to be a good gathering of crowds along the half marathon route at Upper Wanborough.

On the day, there will be parking at the Nationwide headquarters.

Drivers should follow the marshals’ directions. Pipers Way itself will be closed from 9am tomorrow and will re-open at 10pm on Sunday, but it may re-open earlier if the site is cleared quickly.

Baggage lorries will be lining Pipers Way manned by a team of volunteers, and bananas, provided by Tesco, will be handed to runners as they collect their bags afterwards.

There will be drinks stations on the course for both the half marathon and multi-terrain races.

Organisers are recommended that runners arrive in good time for the race, and that they make sure their race chips and numbers are securely attached.

And if you fancy a pre-race or post-race massage, then Diamond Sport Massage therapy will be offering free massage treatments to all participants.