HUNDREDS of runners will be under starter's orders for the B&Q Eastleigh 10k Road Race.

Now in its 21st year, the popular event, which is on March 13, provides local people with a chance to run alongside international athletes around the streets of Eastleigh.

The DIY company has sponsored the race for 14 years and this year it takes on a special relevance.

B&Q has forged a partnership with the British Olympic Association to support the British team from now until the Beijing Olympics in 2008.

B&Q marketing director David Roth said: "The success of Athens is so relevant to all of us.

"We want to make sure we take that sense of Olympic spirit into our stores and communities and inspire our people and customers to have a go at doing something they never thought possible."

Race organiser Steve Collins said: "The response to this year's race has been excellent with entries flooding in.

"I hope B&Q's support for the event and now for Team GB will help inspire people to set themselves a challenge and prove they can do it. We also hope to welcome an Olympian and an aspiring Olympian on the race day."

Entry forms for the 10k race and the children's 2k fun run are available from Steve Collins at Eastleigh Council on 023 8068 8205.