Around 300 visiting runners will join a similar number of locals to take part in this weekend’s 55th Easter Festival of Running.

With entries approaching last year’s record, there are two significant changes – the introduction of a 5k race for men and a new headline sponsor, First Names Group.

Teams from as far afield as Folkestone and Aberdeen, with a smattering of entries from the USA, Holland, Germany and Ireland, will contest the three day event which starts on Good Friday evening at 18.45 with the Bushy’s 10k road race starting and finishing in Port Erin following a route taking in Ballakillowey, Gansey and Port St Mary. Traditionally the blue riband of the Festival, a field of close to 500 runners is expected.

The action moves to Peel on Saturday afternoon for the famous hill races supported by Full Factory Winnerwear starting and finishing on the quayside at Peel. The men tackle a 4 mile route starting at 2.15pm and the women take centre stage over a slightly shorter route at 3.05pm.

The conclusion of the weekend on Douglas Promenade will see separate 5k races for men and women. Both races are sponsored by The Outback, the women off at 10.30 and men at 11.15.

Entries are still being accepted up to 30 minutes before the start of each race. Go to www.easterfestival.info for more information.

Drivers are asked to take special care particularly on Friday evening in the south of the Island.