THE clock is ticking down to the start of the eagerly-anticipated Purbeck Marathon, which takes place on Sunday.

This marathon, voted the UK's best-rated marathon by Runner's World magazine in 2013, is now in its third year.

Despite increasing maximum runners to 400, the event was full well before its closing entry deadline.

Race director Rose Clarke said: “The Purbeck Marathon has been very successful in its first two years and we are now in a position to start improving it, delivering more added value to runners and to the people of Purbeck.

“There will be more happening around the finish area on Sandpit Field and this will be great for spectators as well as runners.

“Our pasta party on Saturday evening will be essential carbo-loading for runners but also a great social occasion as many of the runners will be visiting the area.

“Chip timing will be great for runners but will also be a major part of our health and safety support. We are really excited about the new developments and we are convinced they will further improve this great event.”

Steve Way's course record from 2012 stands at 2.56.52, some time behind his Commonwealth Games personal best of 2.15.16.

The women's record of 3.42.21 was set by Rhiannon Shepherd in 2013.

The race starts at 9.30am on Sunday (Sept 14) on the Downs above Swanage Pier.

The 26.2 mile route takes in Durlston, Worth Matravers, Kingston, passing above Kimmeridge to deserted Tyneham Village, Creech, Corfe Castle and back to the finish along the seafront at Swanage.