RUNNERS have helped organisers come up with a new course for a popular road race.

Darlington 10k will have a new starting point when this year's event takes place on August 9.

Jeff Dawson, from Darlington Borough Council, said the start line had been moved from the bottom of Northgate to behind the Dolphin Centre, in Houndgate.

The changes had been undertaken after runners suggested the start needed to be wider.

As a result the finishing line would also be slightly moved, but Mr Dawson said it would still be on High Row.

He said: "The reason for the change was down to just due to runners' feedback. It was a bit of a tight start and quite congested.

"We are keeping the iconic finish on High Row. It is rare for a road race these days to start and finish in a town centre.

"Most of the race will otherwise be the same."

The two lap race takes a route out of the town centre and around Stanhope Road, Woodland Road, Carmel Road and Coniscliffe Road.

As well as the main race, there will be a fun run and junior race.

Prizes will be on offer to the leading competitors. Despite the chance in the course, there will be additional prizes for new course records.

Martin Scaife holds the men's record in a time of 30 minutes 21 seconds, set in 2002. Last year, Aly Dixon broke the women's record with a winning time of 33 minutes 39 seconds.

Races start at 9.15am. For more details contact Mr Dawson on 01325-388427, jeff.dawson@darlington.gov.uk or see www.darlington.gov.uk/events.