ENTRIES for the award-winning Purbeck Marathon and the Purbeck 16 race are now open, it has been announced.

Places in both events are limited and in past years the marathon has been filled relatively early.

Race director Martin Payne said the event was a great community occasion.

He said: “The Purbeck Marathon and the Purbeck 16 are not just about tremendous runs in scenery but it is also about supporting the community.

“In 2015 we invested heavily in the race infrastructure but we were also able to maintain the same level of donations to local good causes.”

Last year £6,000 was raised by the event, money which was distributed to a range of local charitable causes.

The Purbeck Marathon and The Purbeck 16 are part of the Purbeck Running Festival and The Purbeck Outdoor Weekend initiative.

A marathon spokesman explained: “Both the events taking place over the weekend highlight the beauty of Purbeck, boost the local economy and help local community good causes.

“The races cannot take place without the support of our partners and volunteers on the day.”

The marathon and shorter 16- mile race both take place on the same day in September, starting on the hills overlooking Swanage Pier.

This year, the fifth in the marathon’s fledgling history, the event is being billed as ‘More than Just a Marathon’, in part, because the race is closer to 27 miles in distance.

The spokesman explained: “It is ‘More than Just a Marathon’ because of the stunning scenery that takes in the beautiful seaside resort of Swanage, the Jurassic Coast, Durlston Country Park and the Purbeck hills.

“How many marathons offer you stunning views of the Isle of Wight and the Isle of Portland?

Finishers can also relax their tired legs in the sea afterwards.”

The route crosses the MOD tank firing range, the deserted village of Tyneham, Swanage Railway and skirts the ruins of Corfe Castle.

It is scheduled for Sunday, September 18.

Visit thepurbeckmarathon.co.uk for further details.