RUNNERS in the Ulverston area are being urged to dig out their trainers as the annual Glaxo Hoad Hill Harriers ten-kilometre race is all set to go ahead, despite

earlier fears it may have had to be cancelled because of the foot-and-mouth crisis.

The group is holding the road race from Glaxo Sports Club to Ulverston Priory and back via the coast road tonight (Wednesday), starting at 7.15pm.

The race usually attracts more than 150 runners but this year organisers fear some people may not turn up, as they think it has been cancelled because of foot-and-mouth.

People of all ages and abilities who are interested in taking part are being reassured it is safe for the race to go ahead as it does not involve crossing any farmland.

Secretary Simon Barton said: "Despite us trying to let people know that the run is still on I am still getting lots of telephone calls from people asking if it is as they think it has been cancelled because of the foot-and-mouth.

We have been lucky because the run is on roads so we have been able to go ahead.

There will still be disinfectant mats at the start and at other points during the race just as a safety precaution."

The Glaxo Hoad Hill Harriers are also organising two races as part of the Ulverston Charter Festival on September 2.

The 1.6 kilometre fun run starts at 1.30pm and the five- kilometre race around the town centre at 2pm, both from outside the Coronation Hall.

For more information about the races or to register to take part, Mr Barton can be contacted on 01229-869956.