MARATHON hero Steve Way is urging runners to sign up for the 2015 Bournemouth Marathon Festival following this year’s record breaking event.

The former smoker, who represented England at this year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in July, finished second in last weekend’s half-marathon in the town.

He said: “It was so fantastic to see all members of the community become so involved in this year’s Bournemouth Marathon Festival and welcome thousands of people from all over the UK and overseas. There was such a buzz around Bournemouth.”

He added: “Next year will be only be the third year of BMF, but it has already established its reputation as a must-do event for thousands of people.

“There is something for everyone to aspire to.

“Lots of clubs and families make a full weekend of it and many raise thousands for charity too.

“I really enjoyed doing the half-marathon this year.

“The support on the course was immense, it was a real carnival atmosphere.

“I would urge anyone thinking about it to give BMF a go in 2015.”

The second Bournemouth Marathon Festival (BMF) was a record-breaking occasion with more than 10,500 runners enjoying a full weekend of events and six race records smashed along the way.

An estimated £0.5m was also raised for good causes. To secure your place in the 2015 Bournemouth Marathon Festival, which will take place on October 3 to 4, visit run-bmf.com.

Early bird discounted entries are available from now until midnight on Sunday, October 19 2014.