WARRINGTON'S half marathon could be set to return this autumn - but under different organisers.

Last year's 2019 English Half Marathon was cancelled just days before it was due to take place in September.

Despite hopes that a late deal could be agreed to stage it later in the year, it did not take place.

And none of the thousands of runners who signed up to take part - understood to be around 5,000 - have received any of their entry free back.

Race director Rob Griffiths said at the time he was left 'devastated' by the cancellation. 

Now Warrington Borough Council is set to look for a new company to organise the race in 2020.

A tendering process could start soon.

Starting and finishing in Warrington town centre with the finish line through the Golden Gates onto Bank Park, it was one of the biggest sporting events in Warrington.

More than 6,000 people took part at its height before financial and logistical problems were blamed for its failure in 2019.

The Warrington Guardian understands the council is keen for a new organiser to come on board due to the positive impact on health and the wider economy of the town centre.

If it did happen, it would be a bumper month for sport in Warrington.

As revealed in the Warrington Guardian earlier this month, councillors are due to agree plans for Warrington to stage a finish of a stage of the Tour of Britain when they meet in the Town Hall tonight, Monday.