Hospice encouraging people to join 'Manx Spirit' marathon

Runners will be traversing the Island this weekend aiming to raise important funds for a local cause.

The Hospice 'Manx Spirit' Marathon will take place on Sunday (October 4) is aiming to raise money for Hospice Isle of Man and will coincide with the virtual London Marathon taking place the same day.

Starting on the day at the National Sports Centre at 10am, those taking part will take on a 26.2-mile route covering around ten laps of the NSC track before a run from there down the old Douglas to Peel railway line, out to Peel Harbour and then back to the NSC.

There will also be shorter routes that anyone wanting to take part which range from three miles, five miles and ten miles with Hospice encouraging people of all ages and abilities to get involved.

The 10-mile half marathon distance involves 10 laps of the track with a return run via the railway track to Crosby’s Old Church Rd and back.

Meanwhile, the five-mile and three-mile runs be possible at 10 and 6 laps of the NSC track respectfully with Hospice adding the distance of the run isn't important but the support for the cause itself.

Organisers say the vast majority of the flat and friendly route is totally off road, with only a very small number of road crossings required which would be navigated at the participants own risk.

Anyone wanting to take part or simply spectate are being asked to head to the NSC for 9am on the day - more details about the occasion and how to donate is available on the event's JustGiving page.