A BUS company has jumped aboard the list of companies offering freebies to runners of this year's ABP Southampton Marathon.

Bluestar and Unilink, both part of the Go South Coast group, are offering free travel for those taking part in the event on Sunday.

All participants need do is show their race number or official event ID to bus drivers for free travel throughout the day.

Bluestar and Unilink managing director, Andrew Wickham, said: “We know how important this event is to the city, and want to play our part in helping it run as smoothly as possible.

"We’d like to wish all those involved the very best of luck for a successful event - whether they are participating or part of the organising team.”

ABP Southampton Marathon organiser Nikki Rees added: “We’re thrilled that Bluestar and Unilink are getting behind this year’s event.

"As part of our bid to reduce our impact on traffic and the environment we encourage runners and spectators to use public transport as far as possible."

Fellow city bus provider, First Southampton, has also pledged to give free transport to those taking part in the event.

All runners need to do is show their official race bib to the driver and they can hop onto a bus into or out of the city for free.

The free travel is valid on City Red services 2, 7, and 11, ‘the three’ service, First services X4, X5, 6, 8 and 12.

Chris Chester, operations manager from First Southampton, said: “As a local business we look forward to the ABP Southampton Marathon every year.

"It’s a chance for us to showcase our great city to thousands of visitors.

“It’s our pleasure to support runners by offering free travel on race day.

"We know the chance to relax on our comfy seats on the way home will be a welcome one to those taking on all distances.”

Runners can also take advantage of a long list of medal discounts after the event.

They include afree coffee from Mettricks, a free tapas dish at Tapas Barcelona and a free pizza at Franco Manca.

Stakks Pancake House, in the Marlands, will give all finishers a 25 per cent off on production of medals on race day.