The event will take place in the streets of Sheffield on Sunday, and organisers said they hoped the worst of the bad weather would be over when the main 10km race begins at 9.20 am.

More than 5,500 runners of all abilities are expected to take part in the run, which is being held in the city for the second year running. The programme also includes a junior run at Don Valley Stadium on Saturday.

Coun Sylvia Dunkley, Sheffield Council's cabinet member for leisure, said: "Thousands of spectators, local people and visitors, are expected to watch this fantastic race on Sunday.

"We're delighted to have had a huge increase in the numbers of participants registering for the event – from world class athletes as well as runners of all abilities – so there'll be a terrific atmosphere."

Last year's 10km Bupa Great Yorkshire Run saw more than 4,500 people taking part, and thousands of pounds were raised for local charities. This year's course has been altered and will see participants running underneath the south stand of Sheffield Wednesday's Football Stadium.

The run begins on Norfolk Street adjacent to Tudor Square, and finishes on Arundel Gate and a number of roads will be closed and diversions will be in place.

Trams and bus services will also be affected, and passengers are advised to get up to date information from www.supertram.net, www.travelsouthyorkshire.com and Traveline on 01709 515151.

A council spokesman said roads would be reopened as soon as possible after the event.