FLUFFY dogs that represent the city's football team will get their tails wagging in an upcoming marathon.

Sammy and Mary, the official mascots of Southampton Football Club, are set to take on the 10K race at this year's ABP Southampton Marathon alongside the Saints Foundation Team.

With the costumes weighing between three to four kilos and temperatures expected to exceed 25 degrees inside the outfit, organisers of the marathon ReesLeisure are calling on Saints fans to cheer them on.

Saints Foundation, the official charity of Southampton Football club, aims to transform lives in and around Southampton.

Lydia Clark, fundraising officer for The Saints Foundation, said: “We are always so grateful to anyone who supports Saints Foundation. The money raised from runners taking part in the ABP Marathon, Half Marathon or 10K will support Saints Foundation in continuing to transform lives in and around Southampton, helping people aged between three and 104 fulfil their potential to be more involved, healthier and empowered members of the community.

"Every donation makes a huge difference, so please enquire to join our team."

Sammy will also be helping organisers to kick off the event's Fun Run at 4pm.

Chris Rees, Business Development Manager for ReesLeisure, said: “We are very happy that Saints Foundation are a charity partner of the event and it’s efforts like this that remind that the spirit of Southampton is strong in the city.

"We can’t wait to see Sammy and Mary on the day and will be cheering them on. Sammy will also be helping us start the Fun Run at 4pm, so don’t miss it.”

ABP Southampton Marathon takes place on Sunday April 26.

For more information on the Saints Foundation, visit www.saintsfoundation.co.uk or email Lydia at lclark@saintsfoundation.