ORGANISERS of a road race and fun run through the North Yorkshire countryside say the success of British runners is attracting more people than ever before to the sport.

Competitors from across the country are expected to take part in the seventh 10km Fountains Race, which starts and finishes in the village of Grantley, near Ripon, on Sunday, May 8.

Last year's event, which raised more than £2,600 for Fountains CE Primary school, was one of the biggest yet, with about 240 people taking part.

Organiser Juliet Hall hopes this year's race will be just as successful.

"Entries are flooding in, but there's still time for others to bag a place," she said.

"Many people have been inspired by recent British successes.

"Seeing Kelly Holmes and Paula Radcliffe achieve such fantastic results gives everyone a boost.

"But the best thing about our run is that everyone, from toddlers to grandparents, can take part."

The fun run for children and adults begins at 10am.

It is followed by the 10km event, a one lap course which is run on public roads and across moorland, at 11am.

Entry costs £6 for individuals, £5 for club members and £2.50 for fun runners. Entries on the day cost £1 extra.

All 10km runners will receive a prize.

To enter, either turn up on the day at least 45 minutes before the start, call at Fresh Fields farm shop, North Road, Ripon for an entry form or phone Juliet Hall on (01765) 605241.