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Striders’ explosive race should draw crowd to streets

From the archive, first published Wednesday 1st Nov 2006.

EXPECT fireworks when Billericay Striders stages its annual 10K running race in the town on Sunday November 5.

The entry list, increased to 700 this year, was full more than a week before the race starts.

The male and female course record holders, Angus Crosby and Mandy Livingstone, and last year's lady winner Martha Hall will lead entrants from Welwyn Garden City Runners. Last years' male winner Nicholas Houlton from Richmond will also be on the town's streets.

Race director Dave Sweet said: "The organisation of this event is a huge undertaking for Billericay Striders. It seems that the race has become a major attraction for all levels of runners.

"With the help of local sponsors, Waitrose and Secrets, we are confident that everyone will enjoy themselves. All entrants will be given a well-deserved goody bag and medal at the end.

"As for the course record, given the right conditions, I think it will be blasted, given the standard at the sharp end of the race."

Motorists should avoid the runners on Rosebay Avenue, Queens Park Avenue, Stock Road, Ingatestone Road, Buttsbury, Mountnessing Road and Brightside when the race starts at 9.45am from Hannakins Community Centre.

However, Mr Sweet says cheering spectators will be very welcome.