More than 1,000 runners will descend on Sodbury Common on Sunday for an event that nearly did not take place.

The 10th Easy Runner Sodbury Slog, among the most popular multi- terrain races in the country, was nearly cancelled in the spring following a dispute with the Sodbury Commoners over access to the course.

Fortunately, following talks with race director Gordon Robbins, the race, which was voted fifth best in the UK last year by readers of Runner's World magazine, was saved and Sunday's 10th anniversary will see a record 1,300 entries line up for the traditional 11.02am start on Chipping Sodbury High Street.

"It has been a tough year and there was a time when I thought the race would never happen," said Robbins.

"It took a bit of lateral thinking to find a compromise and then it all became clear, namely run the race the opposite way around.

"The start and finish will stay the same but in between it is a different route – and a nice drop of rain this week has softened it up quite well.

"This is the biggest multi-terrain race in Bristol and Avon and one of the biggest in the West country and I'm delighted it is going ahead."

Among the entries, 73 runners have entered from Sodbury club Hogweed Trotters, 41 from Bitton Road Runners and 30 from Bristol University, including top women Imogen Ainsworth, who was third last year, as well as fresher Sarah Wigmore.

"We also have a runner coming over from South Africa, Max Elliman, after he read about the race on the internet and emailed me his entry," added Robbins.

The Westbury Harriers trio of Robyn Golding, Sophie Voller and defending champion Debbie Marsden should be among the contenders, while Bristol & West AC's Alec Woods should do well in the men's race, which was won by Bristol-based Owain Jones last year.

"I sincerely believe the new route will be as demanding and enjoyable as the old course and it is our intention to maintain the quality and standard of the race," said Robbins. "We want it to be the No 1 race in the UK."

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