MARSHALS are wanted for the Newport half marathon on Sunday, March 2, to help the event pass safely.

Around 1,000 runners are expected on the day, with entries now closed due to the demand.

The marathon, which is backed by the Argus, the event’s official media partner, is in aid of St David’s Hospice Care and will start at 9am from Rodney Parade.

With the route leading runners around Newport for run of 13.1 miles, marshals are needed to help with a variety of tasks.

Tania Ansell, of St David’s Hospice Care, said: “This is a great way of showing support for the Newport half marathon. We want to make it as big as the Cardiff one and double our numbers next year, really making it into a big event that puts Newport on the map.

“There’s a lot to do before the marathon starts so we’ll need people that will be bright and enthusiastic at 8am on a Sunday morning."

“We’d advise people that are helping out to come in suitable clothing and wrap up warm as it can get very cold.” Around 100 marshals were used last year to help the event run smoothly, and a similar number of volunteers are wanted this year.

Those who apply will be placed at registration, directing people along the route, handing out goody bags and medals, at water stations or helping with general inquires. “Once people get in contact with us we’ll designate them a role,” added Mrs Ansell. “Everyone that helped out last year did a great job and all had a job to do so we’re looking for a similar number of volunteers this year.”

If you are not able to help out then you can still attend to show your support for the runners.

The Riverfront Theatre will be opening its doors to more than 100 spectators from 8am to noon on the day. with offers for runners and spectators. Cllr Chris Evans said: the Riverfront : “Behind the scenes I’ve been lobbying for the Riverfront to open this year, to help make the Newport Half a fun, family day out. "Thanks to Cllr Debbie Wilcox and the team, it just goes to show, that in tough times for councils, we can still do things to support positive initiatives."

“Families should head for the Riverfront on Newport Half day.”

If you wish to volunteer, you can email your contact details to fundraising@stdavidshospicecare.org