HELP is at hand for anyone hoping to conquer the Nationwide Swindon Half Marathon this year.

Free running club Swindon Shin Splints will launch on Monday and aims to provide support and motivation for runners of all abilities through a dedicated training programme.

The training will be tailored to runners aged 17 and over who have set their sights on running the 13.1-mile half marathon, five-mile multi-terrain or two-mile fun run on October 10.

The group, set up by Swindon Council, will be a way for members to meet new people and caters for complete beginners and intermediates through to seasoned runners.

Weekly training plans will be available on the Nationwide Swindon Half Marathon website and the group will meet every Saturday morning at 8.50am at Coate Water from May 22.

Anyone interested in joining Swindon Shin Splints can visit an open evening on Monday, (May17) at the County Ground Lifestyle Centre.

The event which will be held between 6.30pm and 8pm, will give runners the chance to meet the group’s mentors and try out gait analysis to help determine which trainers are best for them Nutritional advice will be available and visitors can also enter a prize draw on the night to win a pair of Mizuno trainers, 10 per cent off at Run Swindon in Godwin Court, Old Town or a three-month leisure passport with Swindon Council.

The County Ground athletics track will also be open for anyone who wants to slip on their trainers.

Swindon Shin Splints is open to additional mentors to support the training programme and any experienced runners are welcome to apply.

Race director and club mentor Steve Connolly, said: “Training can often be a lonely process so the Swindon Shin Splints offers a fantastic opportunity to run with like-minded people in a friendly, safe and comfortable environment.”

This year’s Nationwide Swindon Half Marathon, five-mile multi-terrain and two-mile fun run will take place on the Chinese lucky date of 10-10-10.

Last year more than 2,800 people took part in the three races and preparations are underway to exceed that total in 2010 with prize money up for grabs to the top-placed runners in the half marathon.

Organised by Swindon Council’s Leisure Services Team and sponsored by Nationwide Building Society, the half marathon starts on the southern edge of Swindon and winds its way through picturesque villages and beautiful scenery.

To register interest in Swindon Shin Splints and to get a copy of a health screening questionnaire email: swindonhalfmarathon@swindon.gov.uk More information about the group and training plans will be available online from Friday 14th May, visit: www.swindonhalfmarathon.co.uk.

l Look out for a series of features building up to the half marathon, coming up in the Adver.