HUNDREDS of hardy runners will tackle the undulations and brave the sea breezes over a large stretch of North-East coastline this weekend.

The annual test of stamina that has become the stuff of legend among the region’s running fraternity returns on Sunday, with a fully booked extended field of competitors.

About 300 participants are expected to gather on the starting line at the beginning of what is now the fourth Durham Coast Half Marathon, backed by the National Trust.

Heading from Nose’s Point, off East Cliff Road, Seaham, the 13.1 mile route takes in a challenging variety of terrain along what has become known as the Durham Heritage Coast.

Sticking largely to the cliff tops, the course briefly diverts inland at Hawthorn Dene, near Easington, before continuing southwards towards the finish at Crimdon Dene, between Blackhall and Hartlepool.

Marshals will assist runners along the way, with a number of water stations dotted at regular intervals, keeping competitors on track and well hydrated.

The front runners are expected to cross the finish line in about 80-minutes, with prizes for the first three female and male rom 12.20pm onwards. Prizes for the first three men and ladies, plus age category winners.

Event organiser, Wayne Appleton, said: “We opened up the race to more entrants than ever this year and places sold out pretty quickly, so it should be one to remember.

“Lots of runners have returned each year since the first race in 2013, hoping to beat their personal best time.

“Even those who swear ‘never again’ at the finish line come back to take on those steps again.

“The beautiful scenery and amazing buzz must bring them back and help them forget the pain of all those steps.

“It’s a tough route, so family, friends and members of the public are more than welcome to come along, enjoy the atmosphere, and cheer runners towards the finish line,” added Mr Appleton, a National Trust ranger.

Apart from the start and finish lines, the best vantage points along the route are expected to be from Cotsford Field, near Lime Kiln Gill car park, in Horden, Hawthorn Dene, Castle Eden Dene mouth plus footpaths near Easington Colliery, Blackhall Colliery and Blackhall Rocks.

The race begins at 11am, with the first finishers expected to cross the line at 12.20pm, followed by prize-giving at 1.30pm.