So it's finally here. After much preparation (and many new joggers in evidence around the parks and streets of Ealing) residents and visitors are being urged to come out in force on Sunday, 30 September, to support the first ever Ealing Half Marathon.

Organised by the Ealing Eagles Running Club, at least 5000 runners are set to tackle the 13.1 mile course. The race will start in Lammas Park at 9.15am, with runners passing through central Ealing, Pitshanger, West Ealing and Hanwell. They will continue on past St Stephen’s church before returning to Lammas Park via Uxbridge Road and Walpole Park.

All roads will be closed to traffic as the event passes through, with the exception of Ruislip Road East where traffic will be allowed westbound from Argyle Road. Rolling road closures will begin at 8am, with limited access in and out of some roads up until 15 minutes before the first runner passes by. Where possible, roads will re-open 15 minutes after the last runner has passed. Buses will be diverting around the marathon course from 7.30am to 1pm.

Councillor Julian Bell, leader of the council, said: “The Ealing Half Marathon is the latest in a number of projects we are supporting this year as part of the legacy of the Olympic and Paralympic games. We’ve been working with Ealing Eagles Running Club to pull together this fantastic event and it’s great that so many local people have signed-up to run.

“I’ll be there on Sunday to officially start the race and, if you’re not one of the thousands taking part, I hope you’ll come along to cheer the runners on.”

As the start and finish point on the day, Lammas Park will offer plenty of space for spectators, with food, drink and bathroom facilities available.

Some disruption to local traffic should be expected and residents are advised to check the time roads are closed in their area. For detailed road closures and more information on the race, please visit www.ealinghalfmarathon.com or call Ealing Council’s Customer Services team on 020 8825 6161.

As for me? Well if you have read any of my rather sorry training schedule you will realise I am not exactly primed and raring to go.

But I'll be there and will do the best I can.

If you want to wave me on I'll most likely be the one right at the very back.

Let's hope the weather is kind on Sunday and best of luck to all taking part.

25th September 2012