MOST people host a party, tuck into a cake or have a drink down the pub.

But Lavinia Asquith is limbering up to go the extra length to ensure her birthday is one of her most memorable.

The Hampshire finance worker is foregoing the traditional indulgences by running the ABP Southampton Half Marathon on her birthday.

She is one of 12 people whose birthdays fall on the same day as the mass running event – which will be one of the biggest of its kind ever held in the city.

Nearly 20,000 people are expected to cheer 6,000 runners surging through the city on Sunday, April 26 – the same day as the London Marathon.

The 13.1-mile route is organised by Marafun UK and sponsored by Associated British Ports (ABP).

It will be an extra challenge for Lavinia, now 37, who has only competed in shorter 5km events such as Southampton’s Race for Life.

The systems analyst, who works for Old Mutual said: “I am really looking forward to it but there is sense of trepidation as I haven’t done as much training as I would like.

“It will be nice to do something different formybirthday so that I am not thinking too much about the age change.

“It’s going to be an amazing atmosphere and there will be plenty of people getting out there to cheer us on and enjoy the party.

Those supporting her will be husband Andrew, 39, and her friends and family who will join her for a celebratory meal afterwards.

She said: “I will be glad to finish afterwards and not have to feel guilty about having a bit of birthday cake!

“It’s going to be the incentive to keep me going with the training over Christmas.”

The race starts at Hoglands Park and will climax at the finish line in Guildhall Square passing landmarks such as the Bargate, The Common and St Mary’s Stadium.

One of the most gruelling parts will be tackling the Itchen Bridge but there will be great views over the city once they reach the top.

It will raise thousands of pounds for good causes with people running on behalf of local and national charities.

Half-marathon entry is £31.99 and £21.99 for the 10km route.

Sign up at Marafunuk.com