The Essar Chester Half Marathon is celebrating another successful year that saw more than 6000 runners hit the city.

The event, which took place May 19, was organised by Active Leisure Events and attracted a mix of elite and amateur runners from across the UK.

In addition to the Half Marathon, an additional 800 participants took part in the Fun Run.

The charity fundraising from this year's event reached around £700,000, with participants running for a variety of causes.

The official race charity, West Cheshire Food Bank, was among numerous charities that benefited from the runners' fundraising efforts.

Runners enjoyed a flat, closed-road course that took them through scenic rural landscapes, as well as past Chester's historic Roman and Medieval city centre.

Marshall Smith of Ashford AC emerged as this year’s winner, finishing in a time of 1:07:52.

He was followed closely by Chris Perry of Vale Royal AC, who finished the race in a time of 1:08:02, and Jack Bromley of Buckley RC in third place at 1:10:10.

In terms of female participants, Abigail Howarth of Vale Royal AC was the first woman to cross the finish line, doing so in a time of 1:19:17.

Abbey van Dijk of Run4U followed her, completing the race in 1:19:46, while Sandra Hunter of Ackworth RR came third with a time of 1:20:19.

Mr Smith spoke highly of the event, saying: "The atmosphere was incredible."

Meanwhile, Ms Howarth praised the organisers, as she said: "The support was brilliant out on the course and the whole event was really well organised."

Race director at Active Leisure Events, Mr Callum Shields, said: "We are thrilled with the overwhelming success of this year's Essar Chester Half Marathon.

"Seeing such a diverse group of runners come together, from elite athletes to enthusiastic amateurs, truly embodies the spirit of our event.

"We are grateful to everyone who participated, volunteered, and supported this race, making it a memorable day for all."

Deepak Maheshwari, Chief Executive Officer of EET Fuels, the Essar sponsor, said: "This year, we’re celebrating 100 years’ keeping Britain moving so we’re delighted with the record number of entries and turnout for this year’s race.

"We would like to thank Active Leisure and all of the runners, volunteers and supporters for making this such an epic event."

The day was filled with music, food stalls, and family-friendly activities, offering entertainment for participants and spectators alike.

The day concluded with an awards ceremony, honouring the achievements of runners across various categories.

The Essar Chester Half Marathon will return on Sunday, May 18, 2025.