THIS year’s Oxford half marathon is setting its sights high with the target of getting 6,000 runners by October 14.

But there is no point settling for a middling pace when you can stride out and set new records, as was so brilliantly typified by Sir Roger Bannister all those years ago.

The half marathon has the potential to be a momentous addition to the city’s calendar of major events.

The Reading half marathon, just down the road, is a massive event that draws tens of thousands of people out on to the streets.

Oxford already has firm running favourites like this weekend’s Town & Gown, which raises funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign, our own OX5 Run which supports Oxford Children’s Hospital, and the Christmas Santa Run.

The Oxford half marathon, now in its second year, will be another benefit for our community.

There is the potential for it to raise £75,000 for Helen & Douglas House hospice – the equivalent of paying for three carers.

That’s a great reason for anyone who fancies stretching their legs around our lovely city to sign up.