There’s still time to sign up for the Ipswich Half Marathon, as hundreds of runners are set to take to the streets for the annual community event.

Organised by Ipswich JAFFA Running Club and Larking Gowen, the half marathon will take place on September 18 from 10am, starting and finishing in Christchurch Park.

So far more than 1,350 have signed up – from fun runners to athletes – which organisers believe makes the event unique in East Anglia.

“It’s all about the community,” said race director Carl Ashton. “Even if people are not taking part it’s great to see them come out as spectators.

“One of the great things is the support and when we do our feedback a lot of people say they do come back because they are supported by the public.

“Having all the spectators makes a real difference.”

Some runners will be taking part for their own enjoyment, while others use it as a training event – including Olympic athlete Dominic King, who will be joining the runners for his race walking preparations.

But regardless of people’s reasons for running, the entire event helps support Macmillan’s Woolverstone Support Centre at Ipswich Hospital, thanks to on-the-day fundraising and the registration fee.

Kerry-Anne Rookyard, business development advisor with Larking Gowen, said: “In terms of running it puts Ipswich on the map.

“It’s progressively grown and has always been a really good event, and really good to draw in people from outside the town.

“It’s a really good thing for the community and raises the profile of the town.”

The free 2km fun run for youngsters will also be returning this year before the main race, with children able to sign up on the day and enjoy the picturesque route around the park.

Ms Rookyard added: “We have always had a really good sign-up for that, and in health terms encourages people to get out and about and just a really good community spirit.”

Ipswich Borough Council portfolio holder for leisure and culture Bryony Rudkin added: “The Larking Gowen Half Marathon is an established event on the Ipswich and Suffolk calendar, and brings along a lot of people not only to compete but also to cheer on the participants.

“We wish everybody great success on the 18th.”

The deadline for entering the half marathon has been pushed back to Wednesday, with those interested in joining able to register online at www.ipswichhalfmarathon.com/enter-now/Full details of the route and road closures will be featured in next week’s Ipswich Star and EADT.