THE longest-established half marathon in the Tees Valley will have the latest timing technology this year.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council partner Liberata, which sponsors the Redcar Half Marathon, is bringing in a chip timing system for the event.

Each runner will wear a microchipped wristband to record their time when they finish the event, on Sunday, March 13.

Liberata spokesman Steve Christie said: "We are delighted with the technology, which will make the running time analysis easier."

The event is expected to attract about 1,000 serious and charity fun runners, and will start at 10.30am from Redcar Leisure Centre, in Majuba Road.

Entry is £11.50 for club runners and £12.50 for others. Each finisher will receive a T-shirt and medal.

For an entry form, call (01642) 471503. The closing date for postal entries is Monday, February 28.