ALLOA Half Marathon went ahead last weekend, drawing in the biggest crowd the race has seen since before Covid.

More than 2000 people signed up for the annual race, setting off from Lornshill Academy for a 13.1-mile loop around Alloa.

The event is highly looked forward to at the turn of the new year, with event organisers the Alloa Round Table delighted with the turnout and popularity of the half marathon.

Steven Campbell, member of the Alloa Round Table, told the Advertiser this was the best half marathon since he joined.

“It went really well,” Steven said. “This was the best year since I’ve been involved which has been around six or seven years.

“We’re still slightly increasing the numbers every year, particularly since we’re now using a new venue.

“We’re gradually getting back up but there was 200 more than last year so we had around 2,300 people taking part.”

The weather stayed mostly dry for the runners, with Sunday morning remaining mild and cool for those taking part.

Steven explained that the conditions were perfect for a half marathon – a nice temperature, ensuring nobody was at risk of overheating.

“We had a little bit of rain here and there but it was ideal – nice and cool, not too much wind, exactly what we were looking for.

“The feedback has been amazing, everyone was saying lots of good things, everyone enjoyed seeing everyone come down and cheer the runners on.

“A good thing about the Alloa Half Marathon is that it goes through the nearby villages and everyone comes out to support the runners.

“We all really appreciate that.”