Thousands of runners are set to take part in an annual half marathon across Brighton and Hove next week.

Almost 10,000 people from across the country will run 13.1 miles across the city for the Brighton Half Marathon, with participants of all abilities taking part to raise money for charity.

The race, which sets off at 9.30am next Sunday, will start from Madeira Drive before passing by some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Palace Pier, the Royal Pavilion, the West Pier, Brighton Marina and Hove’s colourful beach huts.

The event is organised by Brighton-based charity The Sussex Beacon, which provides specialist support and care for people living with HIV.

Other charities taking part in the race include Macmillan Cancer Support, the Alzheimer's Society and Grassroots Suicide Prevention, as well as local charity Rockinghorse.

This year’s event, the 33rd half marathon to take place in the city, will also see the return of the youth race, which sees children aged seven to 17 complete a one-mile route along Hove promenade.

Martin Harrigan, race director for the Brighton Half Marathon, said organisers were getting “really excited” ahead of the race later this month.

He said: “We’d encourage residents of Brighton and Hove to come out on Sunday morning to cheer the runners on - the support of the crowd makes a real difference to the participants.”

A series of road closures have been announced for the half marathon on Sunday, February 26:

  • 2am to 7pm: Madeira Drive
  • 7am to 2pm: Kings Road/Palace Pier (West Street to Lower Rock Gardens to Edward Street)
  • 8am to 12.15pm: Marlborough Place, Grand Parade, Pavilion Parade, Richmond Terrace
  • 8am to 12.15pm: Marine Parade, Marine Drive (Lower Rock Gardens to Roedean Way)
  • 8am to 2pm: Kings Road from Grand Avenue to West Street, both directions
  • 8am to 2pm: Kingsway from Wharf Road to Grand Avenue, westbound only

Children still wanting to take part in the youth race can enter online for £12 via the Brighton Half Marathon website.

Registration is also open online for volunteers to help on the day, from road marshalling to manning drinks stations.