So the morning started for most of us in the Atrium at the School, where the runners were lining up ready to check in and collect their numbers . .

The catering looked great and seemed to do a roaring trade . . although when I returned after the race, gasping for a coffee, they'd just pulled down the shutter, and I had to gasp a little longer!!

There was plenty of room in the Atrium for relaxing beforehand . . and keeping warm . .

 . . for pinning on numbers . . for stretching . . and just for having a natter . .

Carmel and Dave were on hand for both pre- and post-race sports massage . . and Carmel was still working hard long after I'd put my camera away!!

The two lead cyclists agree on the route they're going to follow . .

And although it was a little cold outside it didn't prevent this meeting of some of the marshals . .

The finish area was already prepared and the people from GB Emergency Services were lined up for a photo of their own . .

It was a short walk to the start, along what would be the final few yards of the Half Marathon . .

As 10 o'clock approached, the last few warming up runners got back to the start . . the lead cyclists had a conference

The runners were then moved back to where the start line actually was . . out of my view, unfortunately, and the path was clear for a few moments . . and then the lead bikes came around the corner and into view . .

 . . soon followed by the 380+ runners . .