WITH the route now announced for the Argus-backed Newport half marathon on Sunday, March 2, there have been calls for the people of Gwent to come out and support the runners.

Approximately 1,000 participants will depart Rodney Parade at 9am to run around a designated route as they aim to finish the 13.1-mile race, sponsored by Admiral in aid of St David’s Hospice Care.

With what is a mental challenge as much as a physical one, your support could make all the difference as runners aim to complete the race and raise money for their chosen charities.

“As a runner the event can be made by the support people receive from the public,” said Christine Vorres, of St David’s Hospice Care. “It is especially important along the last few miles where it becomes a very hard challenge.

“If you’re not involved in running on the day then lifting these runners is the next most important thing as they’ll need all the help they can get.

“People running in this are just trying to raise money for good causes, they’re not hardened athletes so all the help they can get is appreciated.

“The route goes past new houses on the river front so we are hoping that residents can offer their support here.

“People supporting an event like this really gives a boost to runners and creates a brilliant buzz around the place along with a community feel, it is important to support the runners.”