TIME is running out for runners to secure a space in one of the South’s largest challenges.

More than 5,000 eager participants have signed up for the ABP Southampton Half Marathon and 10K 2016 fuelled by a surge of entries in the New Year rush to embrace a healthier lifestyle.

Now the organisers are warning any hopefuls still out there that the clock is ticking if they want to snap up the remaining places at abpsouthamptonhalf.co.uk It comes as a fresh call is made for charities and community groups to show their support by lining the streets to urge them on.

The flagship event comes hot on the heels of last year’s inaugural race which displayed the city’s exhilarating appetite for sport with nearly 20,000 people taking to the streets to cheer runners on.

This year’s event has more than almost doubled with organisers Marafun UK welcoming 10,000 people – 6,000 in the main race and 3,000 for the 10K and 1,000 for the separate Family Fun Run and Schools Challenge.

It takes place over two days starting from April 23, ahead of the main run on April 24 with Associated British Ports (ABP) returning as the premier sponsors and organisers Marafun UK hoping to top the £100,000 raised for good causes last year.

A new main route has been developed starting Guildhall Square and taking in some of the city’s most iconic sights including the Bargate. the QE2 Anchor and St Mary’s Stadium, before climaxing back at the Square.

Charities and community groups are once again being called to serve as ABP Milemakers to cheers runners on. Groups signing up will receive a £200 donation from ABP.

Charities due to benefit include Rose Road, Southampton Air Cadets and the Saints Foundation.

Marafun UK director Chris Rees said he is “overwhelmed” with the response and added: “It is testament to the success of last year’s event that we have already filled 5000 spaces, just one month into the new year.

“The weekend long event has become a high-anticipated occasion in the Southampton calendar and it is great to see so many runners out and about training for both the half marathon and 10K.”

He also called for businesses to sign up for the ABP Corporate Challenge and for more community groups to pledge support as ABP Milemakers adding: “They will play a vital role in lining the routes, cheering the runners on and handing out medals. Positions are filling up fast but we are still seeking ABP Milemakers, particularly on the Saturday.”

Half marathon entry costs £35.99 and £23.99 for the 10K.

The Schools Challenge costs £7 with £5-£7 entrance for the Family Fun Run.