CLOSE to 13,000 runners will pound the streets on Sunday for the 27th annual Vitality Brighton Half Marathon.

International superstar DJ Norman Cook, aka Fatboy Slim, will be sounding the starting klaxon for the 13.1 mile race which will start near Brighton Pier in Madeira Drive.

The runners will then head up past the Royal Pavilion to St Peter’s Church before heading back towards the seafront to head east.

Once they reach the Blind Veterans UK centre in Ovingdean the runners will turn and head west all the way along the seafront to Hove Lagoon.

They will head east once more and finish in Madeira Drive.

The event will mean road closures along the seafront and around Old Steine and the Grand Parade.

But all roads, except Madeira Drive, should re-open by lunchtime.

The event is organised and is the main fundraiser for Brighton charity The Sussex Beacon, which provides specialist care and support for people living with HIV.

The first contingent of runners will cross the start line at 9am.

Organisers have recommended the best places to watch and cheer runners are by The Grand hotel and Hove Lawns.

Race director Martin Harrigan said: “We are thrilled to be introducing a brand-new wheelchair race to the Brighton Half Marathon this year which we’re sure the crowds will get behind

“In the main field, we have a record number of entries, with a mix of club runners, charity runners and entrants from as far afield as Australia. Four times winner and course record holder Paul Martelletti is back to defend his title once again. He’s a big favourite with the Brighton crowds and is a massive supporter of the event.”

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