A RECORD number of competitors are expected to line up for the area's premier athletics event, the East Coast Run, on Sunday.More than 400 runners have already signed up for the 10k race with organisers hoping that entrants on the day will push the figure much higher.

A RECORD number of competitors are expected to line up for the area's premier athletics event, the East Coast Run, on Sunday.

More than 400 runners have already signed up for the 10k race with organisers hoping that entrants on the day will push the figure much higher.

Hundreds more are expected to line the circular route which takes in the seafront and historic town centre.

Novice runners will line up with experienced club athletes for the race, which starts and finishes in St George's Park.

And if 10km seems a little daunting, there is a one-mile family fun run around

the park, which will start shortly after the main race.

Race director Karen Manning said: “We are expecting a biggest-ever turnout of

500 runners, around two thirds of them unattached. The course is ideal for spectators so hopefully there will be plenty of people along the way to cheer the runners on.

“It takes a year to organise the run, and once this if over we will start preparing for next year.”

The East Coast Run is organised by Great Yarmouth Road Runners, with sponsorship from NHS Yarmouth and Waveney.

Partners include the borough council, Active Norfolk, Great Yarmouth Town Centre Partnership and Greater Yarmouth Tourism Authority. The Mercury is the media partner.

Prize money worth a total of �1,750 will be awarded to the winners in five age categories and teams, with a special memento for all finishers.

The race starts 10.30am, entry forms are available online at www.gyrr.moonfruit.com