Two new features are set to add to the experience at a popular road race in Shropshire. This year's Bridgnorth 10K will take place on 20 October and is a ‘must do’ race for any runner with a tour of the town, 676ft of elevation and plenty of support especially at the finish.

A well-organised event from Bridgnorth Running Club, it showcases this historic market town which is split into Low Town (lower area on the left bank of the River Severn) and High Town (upper area on the right bank of the River Severn) and both are linked by the Cliff Railway - the oldest funicular railway in England.

Runners in this year's edition will be able to test themselves in timed sections during the race. In keeping with the challenging route (which is also new this year) runners will be clocked over the Cartway and Railway Street climbs to see who will be ‘Cartway Conqueror’ and claim the ‘Railway Street Rocket’ prize.

These are the steepest parts of the 6.22-miles course, which starts and finishes on the High Street and add to the challenges as the race celebrates its 10th anniversary. A prize will be awarded to the winners of those timed segments, while the first ‘locals’ will also receive prizes.

Race director Vicky Morris said: “We are excited to introduce these new features. We want to improve the race year on year to enhance the race experience for everyone and we feel these do exactly that. The first step we took towards doing this was getting the course officially measured for the first time. We believe these timed sections will add a fun element, as well as be an extra incentive for climbing those hills when the going gets tough!”

More than 100 places are still available for the event, which can accommodate up to 500 runners (its biggest field) and Vicky urges those thinking of taking part to enter as soon as possible. “We want as many people to sign up as soon as they can, especially as all profits will go to a local charity,” she added. “It’s an event that the whole community gets behind and we want runners and spectators alike to enjoy the special atmosphere the race and the people of Bridgnorth create.”

There will also be prizes for the first, second and third placed males and females overall and age category prizes for the winning male and female over-40s, 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s. All finishers receive a superb technical T-shirt, a medal and a water bottle.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Bridgnorth 10K entry page here.

Image: Bridgnorth 10K Facebook