NO spectators will be allowed at this year's Chester 10k event, while all participating runners must take a Covid test before this year's race.
Organisers Active Leisure Events have confirmed the annual running race, which is entering its fourth year, will still be going ahead on July 18 – one day before the new date Covid restrictions are due to be relaxed.
But a number of measures will be put in place to ensure the safety of runners, volunteers, the public and the local community.
This includes no spectators being permitted to attend the event and all runners lining up on the start line on July 18 having taken a lateral flow test for Covid.
In an email to all participants, Andy White and Chris Hulse of Active Leisure said they had prepared to host the race under Step 3 of the Government's Covid regulations if required, and was fully compliant with the latest guidelines.
They said: "We are working tirelessly behind the scenes to make the 2021 Aldi Chester 10K a safe and fantastic return to running for you.
"The health, safety and welfare of runners, as well as our volunteers, staff, contractors, stakeholders, the public and local community will, as always, remain our priority.
"We are going above and beyond what is required and are developing our event plans to ensure everyone remains safe, which means race day is likely to look a little different.
"All runners and volunteers will be required to sign a declaration stating that they will take a lateral flow test in the days prior to the event (you can order them at your local pharmacy and some Tescos), and, that they will undertake a self-assessment of Covid symptoms on race morning and not attend the event if they receive a positive result or have any of the three main symptoms of Covid-19.
"Regrettably, no spectators will be able to attend the event. This is to reduce the overall number of people coming to Chester and attending the event, to protect yourself, other runners, our volunteers and local community.
"The maximum capacity of the event has been reduced, the start and finish venues have been carefully designed to allow for ample social distancing, and a one-way system will be implemented throughout with designated entry and exit points.
"A number of start waves will be utilised, the race will start earlier with the first wave starting at 7.45am, to allow for social distancing to be maintained on course
"There will be no race day number pick-up. All race numbers will be sent out prior to the event. Race numbers will not be sent out until your declaration is completed, please keep an eye on your emails.
"We are asking all runners to be as self-sufficient as possible by bringing your own hydration and nutrition.
"There will be no baggage storage or pre/post-race massage.
"Runners will be asked to wear face coverings in the pre-race start areas and post-race finish funnel (you will not be required to run in a mask)."
Organisers add if people do not feel comfortable running in the July 18 event, they have until July 11 to change their entry into a virtual one, where they will be asked to go the distance in their own time between now and August 15.
Andy and Chris added: "Although race day might look slightly different than normal, we are planning to make it a fantastic return to running for you and hope you are looking forward to taking part in our Chester events as much as we are.
"We look forward to seeing you on race day at our first summer 2021 Aldi Chester 10K, make sure you have your running shades at the ready, we are keeping our fingers crossed for some glorious sunshine."
Last year's Chester 10k on March 8 was the last major sporting event held in the city that year with spectators allowed.
Sporting events have returned to Chester since, including Chester Races and the Deva Triathlon.
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