DRIVERS are being advised to plan their journeys around the Severn Bridge Half-Marathon and 10k event on Sunday 26th August.

Up to 2,300 runners are expected to take part, 1,700 in the fifth running of the half-marathon and 600 in the 10k race, both starting on the western (Chepstow) end of the Severn Bridge, on the motorway itself, and finishing after crossing the bridge and back.

The half-marathon will start at 9am, with the 10k event getting under way at 10am.

On the day, the bridge will be fully closed to traffic between 7.30am and 11.30am, with a clearly signed diversion route in place during the duration of the closure.

Gareth Price, South West Emergency Planning Officer for Highways England, said: “We’d like to remind road users to plan ahead – more than 2,000 people are expected to take part, and as well as the bridge closure, local roads are also expected to be busy before and after the race.

“Our advice is to check our traffic and travel information channels, set off early and allow plenty of time.”

Drivers can get up-to-the-minute travel information by phoning the Highways England Information Line on 0300 123 5000 or by accessing the website www.trafficengland.com