FOLLOWING the highly successful 2021 event that raised over £35,000 for local charities, the Ilkley Half Marathon is returning on July 10 this year.

The event, run by the Ilkley Round Table, will be bigger than previous years with the number of runners being increased and the return of the event village for spectators and entrants alike.

Matthew Barnacle, Race Director for 2022 said: “After the postponement of the 2020 event and being unable to provide an event village for the 2021 event, I’m really excited to bring another successful event to our town that will provide a unique and beautiful run for participants as well as entertainment for them and their supporters. The event aims to once again raise significant funds that benefit good causes in our local community.”

To add to the spirit of celebration for the event this year, there is a flypast by a Supermarine Spitfire aircraft scheduled for 1.34pm on the day of the race.

The Spitfire is planned to fly directly over the half marathon event village where spectators can support runners, enjoy the atmosphere and see this fantastic aircraft perform three flypasts (subject to weather conditions and operational status of the aircraft).

The closed road event starts at 10.30am and will follow the same route as previous years to enjoy local support through Ben Rhydding, Ilkley and Addingham before runners take in the scenery on the run out to Bolton Bridge and back into Ilkley via Beamsley and Nesfield.

All roads will be closed from 9.30am on the morning of July 10 and will re-open as the last runner passes.

The time limit for the Ilkley Half Marathon is four hours. This means the finish line will be closed at 2.30pm and roads around the course will reopen to traffic according to this pace.

Estimated last runner timings for all affected roads are available at https://ilkleyhalfmarathon.co.uk/road-closures/

The event village on West Holmes Fields will provide additional entertainment for spectators and a space for half marathon participants to celebrate, relax and show of their medal after the run. There will also be a kids’ zone where children can enjoy activities including a climbing wall, bungee trampoline and yoga sessions. Food and drink will be available and live music will be performed on the event stage.

Places are still available and if you would like to book your place in the 2022 event, more information can be found at www.ilkleyhalfmarathon.co.uk.