HUNDREDS of runners will set off from Boscombe Pier to tackle this year’s Rotary Easter Road Race on Saturday.

The annual event, which is now in its 18th year, raises thousands of pounds for local and national charities and attracts runners from far and wide.

Organisers say more than 360 people have already registered to compete with dozens more expected to sign-up on the day.

The run, which includes a quarter marathon and two-mile fun-run, is organised by the East Cliff Rotary Club.

The six-and-a-half mile race has become a firm fixture in the running calendar and attracts a variety of experienced and novice runners.

Keith Loveless, race director, said this year’s event is proving as popular as ever.

He said: “We had around 300 people take part last year. We’ve already had 360 people sign-up this year and we may well reach our capacity, which is 500. That would be great.

“But we still have lots of space in the fun-run.”

Runners who take part in the quarter marathon are encouraged to raise funds for the rotary club’s nominated charities through sponsorship. The charities include the children’s hospice Julia’s House, Cruse Bereavement Care, SUDEP Action, Bournemouth Foodbank and the Bournemouth Society for the Visually Impaired.

Those participating the fun run are encouraged to raise funds for charities and causes of their choice.

Mr Loveless said: “Last year we raised £3,000. We hope to raise even more this year.”

The quarter marathon will follow the traditional route along the seafront.

Mr Loveless said: “They will start just next to Boscombe Pier and run out to the promenade over to Hengistbury Head and around the roads at Hengistbury, along the clifftop and back down to the pier. It’s a great event.”

And he’s hopeful the weather will hold out.

“We are supposed to have some reasonable weather,” he said.

“It won’t be too hot so it’s perfect for running.”

Supporters and spectators are welcome to come along and cheer on the runners as they make their way along the course.

The race starts at Bournemouth Pier at 11am. Registration opens at 10am.

To sign up go to rotary-ribi.org.