WE HAVE spent the last couple of weeks telling you about events which have been called off.

Disappointment has littered these pages with news of the cancellation of Cowley Road Carnival – in the road at least – and the delayed Barton Bash.

But, don’t fret, today there is good news.

Oxford has its Half Marathon back after a break of almost 20 years.

Many of us couldn’t think of anything worse than pulling on a pair of trainers and hauling ourselves 13 miles round the city.

But this is a far bigger event than for the 3,000 people who will run in September.

The plan is to make the half marathon an annual event, with the aim to get 10,000 running next (Olympic) year.

It is a great idea.

Anyone who has taken part or watched the Reading Half Marathon will know the impact it has on the town. Let’s hope this event can emulate that success.

For spectators it is a great day out and the competitors – many of whom take part in a race for the first time – the sense of achievement is unrivalled.

We hope Oxford embraces the half marathon and it becomes an annual fixture.