The Stafford Half Marathon got off to a smashing start yesterday morning (22 March), after initially being delayed.  

Over 2,000 people from Staffordshire and beyond took part in the race which followed a route around the outside of the town centre. 

The start time was delayed by around 25 minutes but energy at the start line remained positive with participants taking part in a group warm-up before setting off. 

Winner Lee Gratton, of Rugeley Runners, completed the course in an impressive one hour, five minutes and 32 seconds.  

The start of the race (image via Livia Gregor)

Back in September, Lee won the Stafford 10K, completing the run in 29 minutes and 40 seconds.  

Mayor of Stafford Borough, Jenny Barron, was at the finish line to congratulate the winners.  

Gratton was joined by Matt Crichton in second and last year's winner, Jason Bennett in third.  

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Saffron Latham, of City of Stoke Athletics Club, was the female winner, with a time of one hour, 20 minutes and one second.  

Lee Gratton being congratulated by Mayor Jenny Barron (image via Livia Gregor)

Many people took part in the fun run, with one participant being dressed as a dinosaur.  

Stafford Half Marathon organisers posted on social media: "A huge well done to everyone taking part this year, an incredible effort from runners, volunteers, and supporters across Stafford!"

The Stafford 10k will take place on Sunday 20 September. 

To sign up, click here.