ALMOST all of the 6,000 places for Ealing’s second annual half marathon, which takes place this Sunday, have been filled.

Set up last year as part of London’s Olympic legacy, the run has already been voted as one of the most popular half-marathons in the country by Runners World magazine.

The 13.1 mile route starts in Lammas Park and encompasses Central Ealing, Montpelier, Pitshanger, West Ealing, Hanwell and St Stephens, before finishing back in Lammas Park. Thousands of spectators and hundreds of volunteers are expected to attend.

This year’s headline charity is Epilepsy Action, though runners can also raise money for charities of their choice
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A new feature of this year’s event is the introduction of the Ealing Mini Mile, which is open to young runners aged 6-11. It covers a one mile route around Lammas Park, starting at 9:30am, after the main marathon has got underway at 9:15am. All 200 of the places for the Mini Mile have been snapped up.

Event Co-Ordinator Sandra Courtney said: “We are pleased to introduce the Ealing Mini Mile for 2013. Promoting sport and fitness to young people is something we are passionate about.

“The Ealing Mini Mile is open to young runners of all abilities, and we are working closely with local schools to raise awareness of it.”

Several roads along the route will be closed on Sunday, including parts of the Uxbridge Road, Pitshanger Lane and Greenford Avenue.

For a full list of road closures, check the Ealing Half Marathon website: http://www.ealinghalfmarathon.com/local-resident-traffic-information

Buses which operate in the area will also be on diversion from 8am-1pm.

If you’re keen to join the marathon field, you’ll have to be quick as registration closes this Thursday. Go to the official website for details on how to register: http://www.ealinghalfmarathon.com/race-entry