Organisers of the popular South Woodham Fun Run are expecting more entrants than ever before, in preparation for the Millennium Run.

Kevin Starkey, from the South Woodham Round Table, which organises the fund-raising event, said the number of runners this year would top the record 600 who participated last year.

"We are expecting over 800 entrants this year, a build-up to a target of 2,000 runners for the Millennium," Mr Starkey said.

"As well as attracting local runners and schoolchildren, as the event itself gets more professional, we are now attracting a lot of interest from around the county."

Last year, entrants came from as far afield as Hertford and Kent, said Mr Starkey.

The annual Fun Run, which is part of the South Woodham Town Show, will take place on Sunday, May 2, and is sponsored by Palmer's Solicitors in the town.

As well as the usual 10km run, there will also be a shorter event for children, and as many entrants as possible are encouraged to wear fancy dress for the occasion.

Last year, the event raised more than £2,500 which was distributed between the participating schools in the area.

There will be a selection of trophies for the winners and everyone who completes the race will receive a commemorative medal.

Smiles from a group of runners at the start of the fun run last year.

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