The popularity of the BUPA Great South Run continues to grow.

Europe's biggest ten-mile running event has reached its entry ceiling of 16,500 in record time - an astonishing four months before the event takes place in Portsmouth on Sunday, October 9.

"The event really has gone from strength to strength," said communications director David Hart. "The recent introduction of computer chip timing and wave starts has further improved the event and Portsmouth, thanks in no small part to the enthusiasm and commitment of the city council, now plays host to an international athletic event of real significance."

The weekend will also include the David Lloyd Leisure Great Mile Run on the Saturday, together with the Tesco Junior and Mini Great South Runs. Entries for the junior and mini events, which are expected to attract more than 2,000 budding athletes, are available bycalling the event hotline on 023 9283 4728.