MORE than 2,000 people took part in today's Severn Bridge Half Marathon - and organisers have ambitious plans for an upgrade.

This was the third half marathon on the closed motorway of the Severn Bridge, and next year’s event could be expanded into a full marathon with the course also taking in the Severn Crossing.

Should that be confirmed, it will likely prove a popular idea, with the existing event already having a firm place in many runners’ diaries.

In terms of race organisation and positive feedback from participants, yesterday’s half marathon was the most successful yet.

“I’m delighted with how well the event went,” said organiser Paul Dodd.

“There has been a great deal of hard work put in by our superb marshals and helpers, from Chepstow Harriers, and our charity partners St David’s Hospice Care and Winston’s Wish.

“Tesco helped with bagging up the goody bags and providing bananas. Basepoint generously sponsored the event for the third year running, and Up and Running provided the prizes.

“We are indebted to all of them because without them the event simply could not have taken place.

“It is also extremely heartening to see the runners achieving their aims, whether that’s just to get round, to break their personal best time or win the race.”

Participants were supported throughout, particularly in Mathern, where villagers turned out to cheer them on.

As well as enabling participants to raise money for St David’s Hospice Care and childhood bereavement charity Winston’s Wish, the event was a serious test for specialist runners.

Phil Matthews (Swansea Harriers) was first home, ahead of James Rodgers (North Somerset Athletic Club) and Mark Jennings (Mick Morris Racing Team).

The first three women home were Kath Matthews (Chepstow Harriers), Katie Lea (unattached), and Sophie Walton (Great Western Runners).