When I arrived at Race HQ there were lots of incentives to run as well as possible and even if a prize was going to be out of reach, an Easter Egg and a Mug would be there waiting for every finisher (subject, the sign said, to availability!) . .

there was lots going on too . . cups of tea to drink . . numbers bought online to collect . . or you could enter on the day . .

of course I had to follow this sign . . and it was True . . and although I took a moment to consider sitting down with a coffee and some cake, I exercised restraint, and came back outside . .

to find where all the eggs and mugs were . . and have a look at some great photos from last year's event . .

and as I've said before, I'm still looking for a collective noun for marshals . . how about a Gargle of Marshals?

The finish funnel was looking very neat and orderly . . and this couple were getting their finish photo taken well in advance of the race . .

as ever before any race I've been to, there was a variety of warm up techniques on show to admire . . and whilst I do like to lean on a fence from time to time (or more often, sit on it), I think my favourite is the casual stroll around the cricket field, as demonstrated by these three Harriers of Knavesmire . .

the tried and tested - pushing down a tree . . and the never seen before - listening at walls . .

all the excitement was wearing this little fellow out, and as 10am drew near the crowd of runners, supporters and spectators grew . .

and as the sky became more blue there were some lovely views of everyone across the field . .