In Pictures: Incredible Drone Pictures Show Thousands Pack Hanley For Potters 'Arf Half Marathon

Incredible drone pictures show thousands of runners packing Hanley city centre for the 20th Potters 'Arf half marathon.

The race took place on Sunday (4 October), starting and finishing in Hanley. The pictures, taken by our photographer Kieran of OnlyDrones, show the packed start next to The Potteries Centre and the Sir Stanley Matthews statue.

More than 2,000 people took part. They were set on their way by former Stoke City manager Lou Macari MBE and Stoke-born Olympic long jumper Jazmin Sawyers.

Sawyers said: "Coming into the city centre today and seeing how many people not only have showed up to run but have showed up to support the runners, it just shows the power of sport to bring communities together."

Macari said: "It was great to see so many people up in Hanley" and hoped the event would encourage people to spend more time in the city centre.

The walk started at 8.30am, the half marathon and relay at 9.30am, and the fun run at 9.45am. The course is known for Heartbreak Hill and closed roads through the city.

(Pictures: Kieran / OnlyDrones)

(Pictures: Kieran / OnlyDrones)