A record number of runners are to take to the city streets this Sunday as the annual MBNA Chester 10K makes its return.

The event, which has run every year since 2018, is boasting a packed entry list of 5,000 runners for the Sunday morning spectacular, which would easily beat the current record of just under 4,000 who started in 2020.

As usual, the course sets off from Chester Racecourse, heading via Stadium Way towards the Aldi Roundabout and Parkgate Road towards Mollington, where runners do a short loop and make their way back towards the city centre via Parkgate Road, Cheyney Road, Bouverie Street/Raymond Street, Canal Street, before the race to the finish.

As a result, main road closures on Sunday involve Parkgate Road (A540), which will close from 8.30am to 11.30am with Nuns Road closed between 4am to 2pm. New Crane Street will also be temporarily closed at the time the 10K race waves begin.

The event sees the field of runners split into two waves, starting at 9am and 9.30am respectively, over 10km (6.2-miles).

Race co-founder Chris Hulse said: “Feedback from the runners continues to confirm they get a huge buzz from the surroundings and spectator support as they make their final big effort down past the Town Hall and Cathedral to hang a right into Eastgate Street overlooked by the iconic Eastgate Clock, providing a perfect setting for a turbocharged finish.”

Event director Callum Shields added: “It is expected the fastest runners will be flying down Northgate Street at around 9.30am, and we expect plenty of spectators will turn out to support them and enjoy the sporting action.”

Victoria Dowd, MBNA community investment partnership manager and lead sponsor of the Chester Marathon, said: “We’re delighted to be supporting the Chester 10K once again this year. It is a fantastic event that really gives back to the local community, and we’re honoured to be a part of it year on year.

“To hear the Chester 10K has sold out in record time and with a record number of runners, is incredible and a true testament to the race organisers' hard work and commitment every year.

“We have over 40 runners partaking from MBNA, looking to make a difference to their chosen charities, and we’re thrilled to support this year’s race charity sponsor, West Cheshire Food Bank. The work they do across the region is incredible, and we wish them all the best with their fundraising efforts.

“A massive, good luck to everyone taking part this year!”

The West Cheshire Foodbank is the official event charity for the 10K, and Chester based Active Leisure Events expect their three races this year to raise £1 million overall for local and national causes. The organisers are asking runners and supporters to bring a food donation on race day as a unique way to offer immediate support for the West Cheshire Foodbank.

The MBNA Chester 10K is first milestone of the Chester Triple Medal Series, which includes the Essar Chester 2024 Half Marathon on Sunday, May 19 and the MBNA Chester Marathon and Metric Marathon on Sunday, October 6. For more information, visit www.activeleisureevents.co.uk.