This is a well organized race, starting at 1 o'clock, which leaves plenty of time to fight through the traffic. Always seems to be hot, but plenty of water available. Undulating, and a long stretch on a disused railway tests the concentration. Good runner cameraderie.

I ran this race in 2002, and I struggled on an unexpectedly hot day! After having run a PB of 3hr 36min 6months earlier, I thought that I would beat it comfortably on this pretty flat course. The organization was excellent, and it is a very friendly atmosphere, forming part of the Shakespeare birthday celebrations. The course is mainly rural and scenic, but there is a flat 8-9 mile stretch of trail which seems as if it will never end and this is towards the 2nd half of the course. If you ran this, you will know what I'm talking about! Most of the spectators were at the start and finish only. Still, I am glad I completed it, as I learned a harsh lesson about rehydration on hot days! I would definitely recommend this race if you didnt get into London and want to do a UK marathon. It is an enjoyable challenge.