RED-FACED race chiefs have apologised after a blunder sent fun runners the wrong way.

Thirty competitors in the Frinton and Walton half marathon took a wrong turn less than two miles from the finish line after a race marshal bungled.

Confused runners realised the mistake when they saw race signs pointing in the opposite direction and turned round.

But it was too late to catch the race leaders by then.

They had already gone the right way because they were following the official car.

Fun run committee chairman Kay Chapman said: “We are very sorry that some runners on the half marathon were directed the wrong way by a marshal.

“Fortunately the lead runners following the lead car went the right way, so we were able to award the main trophy.

“However, in fairness to those who were misdirected, we can’t announce category winners.

“The mistake was rectified in time for most runners to complete the correct course, but anyone who did not run the full course can apply for a refund of their entry fee.”

Colin Rothwell, 55, was confirmed as the half marathon winner after race organisers let the result stand. He made the 120-mile round trip from Hockley to compete and finished the race in 1hr 20m 18s.

But awards for age categories were abandoned because of the mix-up.

Almost 160 runners took part in the half marathon Another 520 people entered two and five-mile fun runs. They were not affected by the blunder.

It is the first time in the race’s 23-year history that competitors have been sent the wrong way.

Officials admitted some runners were “annoyed” and organisers apologised afterwards.

Sunday’s mix-up is not being blamed on a slight change in this year’s route, which started and finished at Tendring Technology College in Frinton.

The Gazette’s own race ace – reporter Andrea Collitt – finished first in the women’s 18 to 40 age category in the five-mile fun run.

The event was still hailed a success after raising more than £2,500 for Tendring Technology College, which is fitting out its new library.