RUNNING came home to the streets of Swindon today as Swindon Half Marathon competitors lavished praise on the community spirit instilled by new organisers.

Scores of those coming across the line in Pipers Way this afternoon were full of support for the job done by SEQOL Community Foundation to bring the race back to its roots.

The event was saved by the Swindon health and social care charity in February after British Heart Foundation ended its management of the race.

Men’s winner Gary O’Brien, who was first over the line once before in 2007, said: “Last year, under BHF, it did lose its way a little bit, but this year, from what I’ve seen and heard it really has been brought back into the community.

“The social media, PR and marketing has been superb. They’ve got prizes back on-board, they’re trying to encourage as many people to do it.

“It’s back in shape and I hope everyone comes out to support it next year as well.”

Jess White, 35, of Wroughton, has been running all of her life, but only made her Swindon Half Marathon debut this morning and won it for good measure.

She too praised the organisation and approach by the race directors: “It’s amazing. It’s like running the London Marathon or something: very impressive.”

Katie Taylor-Neale, event director, said the event was the culmination of several months hard work with attention on recording entrants, promotion and infrastructure, such as the road closures and toilets.

“It’s gone really well, everyone’s pulled together as a team,” she said. “We’ve got 200 volunteers, which is apparently the most there’s ever been.”

She added: “We very much had principles: this had to be a credible running event because that’s what it is at its heart.

“Alongside that we wanted it to be really friendly and inclusive, so that lots of different people could get involved.

“Whether they’ve never run at all before or whether they’re trying to get their personal best on an undulating, challenging course, it had to be inclusive.”

Hundreds turned out for the main event, which left Pipers Way at 10.30am, under cool and calm conditions.

Gary, 44, returned a little over 76 minutes later with a clear win for the Swindon man, who was so far ahead it became something of a solo time trial.

“The first time (win) was 2007 and I think I was a little bit quicker today. I have to admit, I’m 45 at my next birthday, so I thought those days were gone.

“I’m delighted to win it again.”

The Swindon Harrier has run every edition of the half marathon race in the town and was full of praise for the support on the streets.

“It’s fantastic, especially around in Liddington and along Marlborough Road. The good thing about being a local guy is everybody knows me,” he said.

Jess said the event had always seemed to pass her by, despite her long-term commitment to the sport.

“I’m thrilled to have done the Swindon Half and won it, it’s a real honour,” she said.

“I’ve grown up around here, I was born in Wroughton. I know this area really well, so it’s a good feeling.”