Runners are on their marks for the Sussex Beacon Half Marathon which takes place this Sunday.

The 13-and-a-half mile race starts and finishes at Madeira Drive, Brighton, and follows a figure of eight route via Hove Lagoon and Rottingdean.

The popularity of the event has soared since it started in 1990 with many runners seeing it as an ideal warm-up for the London Marathon.

Last year 1,704 people took part and organisers are hoping to attract even more this time around.

Almost 1,500 runners have already entered, with another 500 expected to turn up on the day.

Community fund raiser Julie Hales said: "It would be great to have a record breaking year this time and we think it is going to be close. We have room for up to 2000 runners to enter on the day, so it is not too late to take part.

"So far we have raised more than £14,000 for the Sussex Beacon which is absolutely brilliant but we are hoping for more. Alan Partridge star Steve Coogan is going to start the race so I think it is going to be a really good day."

The Sussex Beacon is a purpose-built national care centre which helps people living with HIV/AIDS related illness.

Runners must be aged over 17 years old to enter. Every finisher receives a medal and their name and finishing time in The Argus.

Prizes are also up for grabs to winners in different categories. Entries on the day will cost £10 and will be entitled to prizes. The race starts at 10.30am.