RACE entries will soon open for next year’s annual Alloa Half Marathon.

Keen athletes should take note of Sunday, March 31, as the date of the event that welcomes thousands to the Wee County.

Participants will set off at 10am on the route that will take them around all around Clacks.

Race director John O’Malley is looking to make a number of changes, including a bespoke online entry system to help improve the experience.

The event is a key fundraiser for organisers Alloa Round Table, who will be putting proceeds back into the community.

There are plans for a few more road closures compared to last year to enhance safety for both participants and spectators alike with details expected in due course.

Organisers are also looking to fill Greenfield Park in Alloa with fair rides, hot food and coffee stands as well as stalls for local businesses to keep visitors busy and showcase what Alloa has to offer.

The race director has his fingers crossed for good weather this time around as last year’s run had to be postponed due to unprecedented snowfall and could only take place later in June.

John said: “That was probably one of the toughest decisions I’ve ever had to make the night before the race last year.”

“Hopefully the rain and the snow stay away and we get a nice clean race this year.”

Having to organise the event twice last year led to substantial costs, affecting the proceeds that are used to support good causes and deserving individuals.

Therefore, the prices have slightly increased by £2 per runner to recover.

John added that he wants to make sure “everything goes smooth" and so they can continue to support those request money through the Round Table.

It is expected entries will open in the coming weeks, keep up to date by following the Alloa Half Marathon Facebook page.