HEXHAM Running Festival looks set to go ahead next year, despite earlier concerns over its future.

More than 700 people turned out last month, when the annual event took place for the fifth consecutive year.

But following a series of problems on the day, caused by poor signage and a lack of marshals, organiser Greg Urwin announced on social media his intention to “shut down the event.”

Now, following a wealth of support from runners who did not want the festival to end, Greg has had a change of heart.

The former Scottish national senior 800m champion revealed he has held positive discussions with UK Athletics, and local councillors.

And the Tynedale Harrier is hopeful of galvanising more support the event which requires road closures in Hexham town centre. Dozens of marshals are required to oversee routes for the half marathon, 10k and 3k races, while the event is heavy on administration, with entries, timing chips, water stations, medals and souvenir t-shirts, among the many items on Greg’s to-do list.

Greg has organised a smaller-scale event which will take place on Saturday, October 5.

He said the The 10k Barrasford Beer & Burger Run would enable him and his new team of helpers to show what can be achieved, and address some of the issues which affected last month’s Hexham Running Festival.

Entries for the 10k are now open via https://www.facebook.com/barrasford10ktrail/.

Runners will enjoy refreshments afterwards at the Barrasford Arms.