SOUTH coast-based Hendy Ford is set to be headline sponsor of the Eastleigh 10k — one of the largest road races in the country.

Hendy Ford’s Eastleigh dealership will support the popular event which celebrates its 32nd anniversary in March next year and Hendy Group managing director Paul Hendy said he was delighted to join forces with one of the most well established running events in the region.

“As a group we are involved in a wide range of events and activities and the Eastleigh 10k, which starts and finishes within sight of our Leigh Road dealership, fits perfectly in our plans,’’ said Paul.

The event takes place on Sunday, March 20, 2016, and is once again set to attract more than 2,750 runners — making it the largest 10k in the south.

Race organiser Steve Collins said: “We are absolutely thrilled that Hendy Ford has agreed to sponsor this fantastic community event. I would like to thank B&Q for its support for the event over the last 24 years and now look forward to an exciting new future for the event with Hendy Ford. The race has grown in popularity over the years and with the continued popularity or running by people of all ages I look forward to working with Hendy Ford to make this event even more special.”

The event attracts runners from across the UK who all descend on Eastleigh to take advantage of the fast, flat course which is ideal for top athletes and fun runners alike.

The event will again include the popular children’s run which provides the chance for more than 500 kids aged 4-12 years to join the fun and earn their own gold medal.

Entries for the event will open at the end of September for more details visit www.runningmania.co.uk