NEXT weekend sees the third annual Plusnet Yorkshire Marathon, with 7,000 runners expected to take part.

A further 2,000 people have also signed up for the first Plusnet Yorkshire 10 Mile race, which will begin after the marathon, and will also take in the city and neighbouring villages.

Both races have been organised to raise money for a host of charities and good causes, with City of York Council, Ryedale District Council, North Yorkshire County Council and East Riding of Yorkshire Council.

Charlie Tatman, event director, said: "Our marathon continues to go from strength to strength and this year we are also looking forward to the first Plusnet Yorkshire 10 Mile.

"Unfortunately with an event of this size a certain amount of disruption is inevitable and we would like to apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused. All closures, which are necessary for the safety of all those involved, will be lifted as soon as possible."

Leaflets are being distributed to thousands of homes and businesses along the route with details of road closures, which are also printed below.

Further details are also available at theyorkshiremarathon.com where volunteers can also register to help marshal the race, or hand out water and energy drinks.

The Route:

-The race starts and ends at the University of York's Heslington campus, through the city centre, and out through the northeast of the city.

-Runners will pass through or near Stockton on the Forest, Grange Wood, Upper Helmsley, Stamford Bridge, Gate Helmsley, Turkers Wood, Murton, Osbaldwick, then back towards Heslington.

Road Closures, Saturday:

-University Road, in York, will be closed between Innovation Way and Green Dykes Lane on Saturday, October 10, from midday. It will re-open at 9pm on Sunday, October 11.

Road Closures, Sunday, from 6am:

-Walmgate, Hope Street, Leadmill Lane, Piccadilly, Parliament Street, Blake Street, Duncombe Place, Deangate, Goodramgate, Monkgate.

-Heworth Green A1036, Stockton Lane, The Village, Common Lane, Northgate Lane, Holtby Lane, Murton Way, Bad Bargain Lane and Osbaldwick Lane.

-Roads will reopen on a rolling basis, as soon as it is safe to do so.