MORE than 100 runners from across the country are expected to start the 32-mile Dartmoor ?Discovery? Marathon on June 5, which is one of the toughest courses in England.

The race starts and finishes in Princetown and takes runners through Two Bridges, Dartmeet, Poundsgate, New Bridge, Ashburton, Buckland in the Moor, Widecombe in the Moor, Soussons Forest and Postbridge.

This will be the sixth marathon of its kind and will be started by the mayor of West Devon Peter Hill. Twinned with the 36-year-old Two Bridges 36-mile marathon in Scotland, this year?s event will incorporate the twinning awards for competitors who have completed both events.

With 4,000 feet of ascents, coupled with many long and steep descents, the course is one of the toughest on the marathon circuit, yet due to the experience and determination of participants, few fail to finish. Because of the length and severity, runners have to be at least 20 years of age on the day of the race.

People are being advised not to enter if they do not feel they have done the necessary training to complete the race.

Extensive prizes are on offer and presenting them will be John Harris, who is the only Chelsea Pensioner to have completed four London Marathons as well as many other marathons in Europe, America and Canada.

Further details and entry forms are available from the race director on 01752 401062.