A MAJOR sporting event in Basingstoke has been ranked as one of the top 10 of its kind in the UK.

The Basingstoke Half-Marathon has appeared on the list, compiled by Runner’s World magazine, for the third year and has also been shortlisted in the national Running Awards.

Fans of the event are being asked to vote for the race, which is held in October in the town.

Felicity Edwards, managing director of Destination Basingstoke, which organises the race, said: “We are so proud that our race is being recognised by industry experts and runners alike. I really believe the success is as much due to the way our community – whether runners or not – have embraced and supported the event.”

She added: “It would be great to get you to vote for us in these awards so we can keep Basingstoke on the map as a great place to be, and run.

“It was also fantastic to see that our friends, Chineham Park Running Club’s Run the Vyne race also made number four in the Runner’s World Top 10 10k races too – evidence that Basingstoke is really gaining a reputation as a great place to be, and run.”

Kerry McCarthy, commissioning editor from Runner’s World, recommended the Basingstoke Half-Marathon to reader’s as his favourite race from 2014.

He said: “After seven years as race editor of Runner’s World it takes a lot for an event to surprise me, but that was the case here. Most of the route takes you through the surrounding countryside and villages. It’s hilly, gorgeous and the support is brilliant. I absolutely loved it.”

To vote for Basingstoke Half-Marathon visit therunningawards.com/#vote.