RUNNERS will be racing next to rhinos, elephants, giraffes and zebras as a popular half marathon returns.

The Colchester Stampede 10k and half marathon will be returning to Colchester Zoo this weekend.

The event is in aid of the Action for the Wild charity which supports worldwide conservation projects.

Runners will set off from the centre of the zoo at 9am on Sunday, October 2.

The race will finish back inside the zoo after runners embark on a course through the zoo and along the surrounding roads close to Hardy’s Green.

There is a three-hour cut off time due to the road closures.

The roads which will be closed during the event are Fountain Lane, Boarded Barn Lane, Whitehouse Farm Road, Hardys Green Road, School Road, Beckingham Hall Road and along Maldon Road.

A spokesperson for Colchester Zoo said: “We are excited to be bringing the Colchester Stampede 10k and Half Marathon events back in 2022.

“Join us at the incredible Colchester Zoo for the unique opportunity to run a chip timed 10k or Half Marathon that starts in the heart of the Zoo, that’s right you will be starting between the Rhinos, Elephants, Giraffes and Zebras.

“Both the Colchester Stampede 10k and Half Marathon events have a route like no other and one you won’t want to miss out on.”