The clock is ticking for runners to sign up for one of the most hotly anticipated mass running events on the South Coast.

Entries for the ABP Southampton Half Marathon and 10K close tonight as the final countdown begins towards the big day.

Now organisers Marafun are urging any hopefuls out there to register before it is too late.

And it comes as they have revealed that entries for the shorter sister race the 10KM have already been snapped up.

The marathon - backed by prime sponsors Associated British Ports (ABP) - is returning to the city for the second time.

This year takes place over two days starting on Saturday, April 23 with the main race on Sunday, April 24 - the same day as the London Marathon.

It comes after nearly 20,000 people took to the streets to cheer 5,000 runners on in the inaugural race - capturing the city's imagination and it's love for sport.

So far more than 6,500 people have signed up - with a maximum 1,200 running the 10KM.

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 a grandstand finish back at the Square.

Charities and community groups are once again being called to serve as ABP Milemakers to cheers runners on, while organisers hope participants will smash the £125,000 raised for good causes at last year's event.

Race director Chris Rees said: "General entries are closing so be quick and don't miss out. We are delighted by the response from the city for the second year running and Southampton has well and truly embraced the event. It is now one of THE running events in runners' diaries on the South Coast."

He added: "Overall we are ecstatic with response rate for the second year, the huge amount of work put in by ABP, the mile makers and the team for the 2015 event have led to this even bigger event for 2016!

Register at abpsouthamptonhalf.co.uk. 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.