It's the annual Alsager 5 road race this weekend - the first event of the season for many local runners.

PAU Alsager 5 competitors will take to the town's streets on Sunday (1 February) for what is the first race of the season for the North Staffordshire Road Runners Association (NSRRA).

The Alsager 5 mile race started in 1985 and was called the Butters 5 but is now called PAU Alsager 5 and is always held on the first Sunday in February.

The race, which starts at 11 am, is now sponsored by PAU Run and Ride.

A spokesperson said: "We rely on the goodwill of residents and businesses to put on a local community event that encourages good health and wellbeing. A

"A rolling road closure system operates meaning that as soon as the last runner passes through, the road will reopen. The first roads will be closed at 10.50 am and the event will be completed by 12.15 pm."

A spokesperson for PAU Run and Ride said: "As your local running and cycling specialist, we are dedicated to supporting athletes at every level, from beginners to seasoned competitors and everything in between.

"With stores based at Trentham Shopping Village, Audlem, and Blakemere Village, we provide premium brands, expert advice, and a welcoming community that shares your passion for fitness."

The race not only attracts local runners but also runners from outside the area, many travelling far and wide to take part.

The following road closures will be in place from 0.15 am until 12.15 pm on Sunday (1 February)

• Pikemere Road
• Hassall Road from the junction of Pikemere Road to the junction of Dunnocksfold
• Close Lane from the junction of Close Lane to the junction of The Avenue
• Sandbach Road North from the junction of The Avenue to the junction of Pikemere Road

Among those taking part will be Rob Langford for whom this year's race is extra special as we revealed in our story here

Good luck to all those runners taking part!

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