Brooklands is synonymous with racing and high speeds; however, it will host a competition with a difference on Sunday, March 2 as 500 people line up to compete in its inaugural 10km run.

The race will take place on the Handling Circuits at Mercedes-Benz World where spectators can support from the sidelines.

The run, which is set to become an annual event, has been organised by Mike Gratton of 2:09 events who hopes to grow entries to over 1,000 in coming years. Mike, who has previously arranged races at Longleat and Dunsfold Park, the filming location for Top Gear, selected Mercedes-Benz World for the annual occasion as it offered a safe route for all levels of runners.

He explains: "Mercedes-Benz World is ideal for road running for two reasons. Firstly, it's a traffic-safe venue so runners can compete without the worry of traffic or pedestrians on the route, and secondly it provides a perfect running surface in the most part as it is predominantly flat."

The majority of the runners are expected to be in training for the London Marathon, using the 10km series as a stepping stone in preparation for the daunting 26 miles that await them in April. In the format of the Marathon, the Brooklands race will also host a 10km wheelchair race and a 1.5km run for under-15s.

For further information on the 10km run, visit www.runnersworld.co.uk/brooklands or telephone 01252 373797.