A RACE taking place at a famous zoo will resulted in road closures around Colchester this weekend.

The Colchester Stampede 10k will return to Colchester Zoo on Sunday in aid of the Mid and North Essex Mind charity.

The non-profit organisation which aims to support and empower people experiencing an emotional or mental health condition by building on their personal hopes and aspirations.

Runners will set off from the centre of the zoo at 9am and embark on a course through the grounds and along surrounding roads close to Hardy’s Green.

They will conclude the race back inside the zoo.

As a result of the event, road closures lasting three-hours have been put in place from 8.30am until 11.30am.

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The roads which will be closed during the event are:

Aldercar Road
Maldon Road
Beckingham Hall Road
Birch Park
Blind Lane
Boarded Barn Road
Fountain Lane
Hardys Green
Porters Green Road
Rectory Road
Whitehouse Farm Road. 

Runners who take part in the race will receive a themed medal, official race photos, chip-timed results and post-race goodies. 

A spokesman from Colchester Zoo said: "Come and run with us at the Colchester Zoo, home to over 260 species and set in 60 acres of parkland and lakes!

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"The Zoo is proudly listed in the top two zoos in the UK and listed as the 11th best zoo around the world as part of the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Attractions.

"We have been extensively researching into what runners consider important, and sustainability is fast becoming the most important area.

"T-Shirts at events have been a hot topic mainly around them not being a high enough quality to wear regularly.

"So we have decided to tackle this by offering a RunThrough Kit Technical T-Shirt with a retail value of £22 for £12 with the addition of the event logo printed on the chest.

"The Colchester Stampede 10k event has a route like no other and one you won’t want to miss out on."

For more information, and to book tickets for £34 per person, visit colchesterstampede.com.