REGISTRATION for this year’s Swindon Half Marathon is open after the Seqol Charity saved the event.

In February, the organisation stepped in after the British Heart Foundation withdrew from overseeing it.

It will be working with other groups from the town, including the Adver, to hold the run on October 11.

The charity is a strand of the health group which supports people from across the region.

Michelle Howard, Seqol Charity chairman, said: “The preparations are going very well. This is the first time that we have done anything of this level and it is surprising how quickly you become an expert in certain areas.”

Registration fees will go towards the event’s running costs, estimated to be £50,000, with runners encouraged to fundraise for good causes, such as the Seqol Charity.

Ms Howard said: “When it came to the point where it looked like the half marathon was going to be pulled, we were determined to do what we could to support such a popular Swindon event.”

There will be four events beginning in Pipers Way – the half marathon, a five-mile multi-terrain run, a two-mile fun run and a wheelchair race.

When putting together plans for this year’s event, the charity worked with Swindon Borough Council, who’d previously organised the half marathon.

Ms Howard said: “It has been a steep learning curve for us and we are delighted to have the help of previous race directors from the council.”

The event’s official website is now live and organisers are keen to welcome lots of entries.

Ms Howard added: “We hope it is going to be a great day and we’d absolutely love to see as many Swindonians as possible, taking part.”

As well as runners, the event is also looking for volunteers to help around the circuit and any businesses who’d like to sponsor the half marathon.

“We’ve already had great support from businesses but we’d certainly welcome more,” said Ms Howard. “We can never have too many volunteers.”

Anyone looking to sponsor the event can email communications@seqol.org. Those looking to take part or volunteer can visit www.swindonhalfmarathon.org.uk for more details.