RUNNERS are being encouraged to sign up for Blackburn’s biggest annual road race.

Blackburn Road Runners are busy preparing for their Winter Warmer race on Sunday, February 8 at Witton Park.

The main race is a 10k route taking in some of the town’s most picturesque scenery and ends at the new athletics arena.

There is also a 2k race for children.

Club chairman Sue Wolstenholme said: “So many people in Blackburn have become really passionate about running. It’s amazing to see such a strong community movement developing.

“We want to get 500 runners to fill this year’s Winter Warmer to capacity.

“It’s a great event, well marshalled, cheap to enter and everybody gets a goody bag.

“Together we can show Blackburn is the best when it comes to running and organising events like this.”

Runners of all abilities and ages can take part and race pacers are available for anybody looking for a personal best time.

The race is chipped so times are accurate with £100 prize money up for grabs if the course records are broken.

The men’s course record is 31 minutes and 23 seconds and the ladies course record is 34 minutes and 53 seconds.

Among the race sponsors is Blackburn with Darwen Council’s latest leisure facility, Witton Park Arena.

The leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, Councillor Kate Hollern, said: “I wish the Road Runners every success with this event.

“It’s another great example of community groups making things happen for the good of the town.”

To enter visit the club’s website www.blackburnroadrunners.net or for more information email entries@blackburnroadrunners.net.