THOUSANDS of elite, keen and novice runners will pound the pavements of Oxford in what is expected to be a record turnout for the half marathon in the city this Sunday.

They will be cheered on through the iconic streets of the city as they make their way round the 13.1-mile course, which this year is being organised by Virgin Sport.

And as participants are busy carb-loading and making last-minute training adjustments, organisers are urging people to head along to spectate on the day and get involved with a host of 'street party on the move' themed activities.

Virgin Sport co-founder Freddie Andrewes said: "We are thrilled to be bringing the iconic Virgin Sport Oxford Half Marathon back to Oxford this year with record entries of over 10,000 participants registered.

"The 'street party on the move' themed Half Marathon will feature live entertainment at every mile to carry participants to the finish line.

"We are inviting everyone to come down and soak up the buzzing atmosphere on the day and join the cheering crowds – this year we have two Fan Hubs exclusively for spectators to watch and cheer at miles 0.5 and 11.5.

"Also, experience all that’s on offer in our Race Village in Oxford’s renowned University Parks, which will feature local food from the likes of The Oxford Foodies and Spurtle & Spoon, more entertainment and free fitness sessions from Virgin Active.

"It is going to be an unforgettable day out for all on Sunday."

Event organisers have recommend those travelling by car to the event are best using the city's Park&Ride service, due to a lack of parking spaces.

The event's race village opens at 7.30am and the starting klaxon in Broad Street for runners will be sounded at 9.30am.

There will be a number of road closures and diversions in place, including the entire length of 25 roads - in the city centre and North Oxford.

These will be closed from 8am with many more streets partially closed and changed to one-way systems.

North Oxford side streets off Banbury Road will be closed until 1.30pm with roads closer to the start area in Broad Street to remain closed until 2.30pm.

The race starts in Broad Street, goes up almost the full length of Banbury Road, before coming back down to the Marston Ferry Road, through Marston and back to the city centre.

The event began in 2011 but avoided the city centre - starting and finishing at the Kassam Stadium - until 2015 when a new course that included some of the city’s most historic landmarks proved a hit with runners.

The Oxford Mail will be there on the big day, so look out for our reporters and photographers and say hello!