ABOUT 150 runners are expected to take part in a County Durham road race tomorrow.

The Derwentside ten mile race around the Stanley area usually attracts about 70 entrants, but it has already passed that number in applications, with many more expected to sign up on the day.

The event, organised by Derwentside Athletic Club, starts at the Louisa Centre, in Stanley, at 10am.

For the first time in 18 years, the route has changed, after police expressed some road safety fears. The new route will start down the front street of Stanley, taking in Station Road, Tanfield, Tantobie, Harperly, Catchgate, Anfield Plain and New Kyo.

Motorists are warned of road closures in the Stanley area tomorrow, from 10.30am until noon, in Harperley Lane, Harperley Road, Kyo Lane and Bushblades Lane.

Anyone wanting to enter the race on the day can register for £7 at the Louisa Centre. For details, call (01207) 239566