SHE is responsible for championing and developing Southampton’s sporting and leisure facilities and encouraging residents to get out there and embrace a healthier lifestyle.

So city council leisure chief Satvir Kaur has jumped at the opportunity to blaze a trail through the city during the ABP Southampton Half Marathon and 10km.

The senior Labour councillor is joining a team of Southampton City Council staff pounding the pavements when the flagship race returns this weekend to showcase the city’s sporting prowess.

Crowds of more than 20,000 people are expected to descend on the city to welcome more than 8,000 runners competing in four action-packed races taking place over two days from Saturday.

It is organised by Marafun UK and Associated British Ports (ABP) are returning as prime sponsors – while the council is also.

The main event is on Sunday, April 24 – the same day as the London Marathon – and takes in some of the city’s most famous sites including the Bargate, the QE2 Anchor and St Mary’s stadium during the 13.1mile route before finishing back at the Guildhall Square.

Cllr Kaur, the cabinet member for communities, culture and leisure, is taking part in the shorter 10km route alongside her teenage niece Sandeep Kimi Kaur.

Cllr Kaur – a self-proclaimed reluctant runner – says crossing the finish line will be a “huge personal challenge” and said: “Events like this are brilliant because they bring so many people together and make our relationships stronger.

"In my council role I am passionate about encouraging residents from across all of Southampton’s diverse communities to engage in healthy, fun activities.

"This is a family event and running with my niece has allowed me to bond with her. I am looking forward to crossing the finishing line together.”

The council’s strategic transport planner Iain Steane has signed up to the half marathon with some of his my journey team and said: “We have boldly signed up to take part. Friendly competitive spirit is definitely spurring us on during our training.”

For more information, including the route and the best places to watch the action unfold, see abpsouthamptonhalf.co.uk.

ABP director Nick Ridehalgh said: “So many councillors have fully embraced the ABP Southampton Half Marathon and 10km and we look forward to seeing them there.”