SOUTHAMPTON runners now have less than a month to register for this years’ ABP Southampton Marathon.

Due to excess demand, the deadline for applications has now been brought forward to March 24.

The deadline for the marathon sign-up, which will take place on May 5, was originally April 10, but has now been brought forward.

This year’s event is expected to sell-out, with 10,000 runners signed up, and looks set to draw 20,000 spectators.

Nikki Rees, of ABP Southampton Marathon, said: “W

e are delighted that people love the event so much and are eager to get involved this year as it is going to be the biggest year yet. With the marathon landing on a bank holiday weekend this year we are hoping that people will take advantage of this and make time to see the city with their friends and family, turning a race into a short weekend away. Make sure you are signed up by the 24th March to guarantee yourself a place on Sunday 5th May! You can do this on our website.”

Last years event sold out in record time, with over £500k raised for charity. The city saw 30,000 spectators and an estimated £1m spent in the city over that weekend, due to the event.

The event features a marathon, half marathon, a 10k and a children’s fun run.

All races will start and finish in the city centre, with the course taking runners into iconic city landmarks including the Bargate, the Itchen Bridge, Weston Shore, Riverside Park and the Common, before finishing by the Guildhall.

The race is fully chip-timed and all participants receive a medal and t-shirt once they finish.