THE brains behind Chippenham Half Marathon will be stepping down from their posts and will be handing over the reins to the Chippenham Harriers.

Kevin Napier, Ian Wiggins and Chris Constable, who have been involved with the race since its resurrection in 2008, feel the time has come to take a break from the organisation of the popular event.

"We would like to express our gratitude to all those who have provided so much assistance in the past and present," Mr Wiggins said. "In particular Paul Dodd, Ann Slator, John Duckenfield, Andy Thatcher, Liz Thatcher and Paul Edwards who were instrumental in getting the race off the ground in 2008 and providing support over the years.

"We would like to thank all the sponsors that have supported us since 2008 and a huge thank you to Wiltshire Council authorities whose guidance and hard work behind the scenes have enabled the successful running of the race."

The outgoing committee also paid tribute to the Chippenham Sports and Social Club and Chippenham Cricket Club for allowing them to use their grounds free of charge and the Chippenham Harriers for supplying marshals and volunteers over the years.

Mr Wiggins added: "All of the above contributors have enabled the race to be able to donate over £80,000 to charities and local good causes and to provide a platform for the runners to raise many tens of thousands of pounds more through sponsorship to support charities and good causes that are close to their hearts.

"We hope that under the control of Chippenham Harriers the Chippenham Half Marathon will continue to be one of the premiere events in the running calendar and will raise many more thousands of pounds for local charities and good causes."