THE start line is in sight for this year’s East Coast Run and organisers are hoping the number of runners this year will exceed last year’s total.

The annual 10km run, which starts and finishes at St George’s Park in Great Yarmouth, attracted 550 runners from across the country last year, some running for charity and others competitively.

But Marie Hartley, culture, sport and leisure manager at Yarmouth Borough Council, was hopeful the run would continue to grow in popularity, starting with this year’s race on October 23.

She said: “We will be hoping for a 500-plus field this year, building on what was achieved last year.

“We will be hoping to exceed last year’s field and we are keen to attract new novice runners as well as the most experienced.”

The race, which starts at 10.30am, is supported by Active Norfolk, Yarmouth Town Centre Partnership and Greater Yarmouth Tourist Authority and organised by Yarmouth Borough Council and Yarmouth Road Runners.

Ex-Olympian Paul Evans will provide a 12-week training programme, workshop sessions and ongoing support and guidance to novice runners.

This will be the race’s fourth year and the route will include historic landmarks around the town and seafront. There will be a comprehensive cash prize list.

Last year, approximately 30 marshals, 20 army cadets and friends and families were involved in organising the event, which attracted a 550 turnout despite appalling weather.

The weather turned, and conditions could not have been better for fast times and personal bests.

First home in the quick time of 31:24 was Gordon Lee from Leicester Coritanians who pipped Elliot Palmer from Ipswich Harriers (31:41).

With most of the club members out on the course marshalling, the only Road Runner taking on the challenge was Steve Stringer who finished quicker than the previous year in 52:23, placed 281st.

To enter the run, email Marie Hartley on mlh@great-yarmouth. gov.uk or phone 01493 846354.