ONE of the region's longest-standing road races will take place on Sunday.

The Sherwoods Chevrolet Darlington 10km road race, in Darlington, is now in its 20th year, and early race entries indicate a record number of runners this year.

Last year, more than 1,100 participants of all ages and abilities raised tens of thousands of pounds for local charities.

The race will begin at 10.30am, starting in Bondgate and ending in High Row.

Jeff Dawson, Darlington Borough Council's events manager, said entrants were travelling from all over the UK to race, with one man, Anthony Richardson, travelling from Holland.

Other runners this year include John and Mary Slater, from Darlington, who are both 80.

Stephen Hepples won the event last year in 31 minutes and four seconds.

This year, he faces a strong challenge from Martin Scaife, who has won the event four times in the last five years. The race record is 30 minutes 21 seconds.

Medical staff will be at points along the course, and drink stations will be located at 3km and 7km; with refreshments at the finish.

There is also a family fun run and a 3km junior race for 11 to 16-year-olds, which will start at 9.15am and 9.45am respectively.

Prizes will be given to individuals who clock up impressive times, and everyone to cross the finish line in the 10km and junior races will receive a T-shirt. Children who take part in the family fun run will receive a medal.

The Dolphin Centre, in the market square, is providing changing facilities and toilets for all runners.

In the market square, representatives from Mizuno and Northern Runner will give advice on running techniques and footwear, while Woodlands Hospital is offering free physiotherapy treatment to runners with tired legs.

Throughout the day there will be live music and street performers to entertain the crowds.

Free parking is available around the town centre, although some roads will be closed for several hours.

All money raised will support Butterflies, a new service provided by St Teresa's Hospice.

Butterflies provides counselling and support for children and young people who have lost a parent or other loved one to terminal illness.

To take part in the race, sign up on the day in the Dolphin Centre from 8.15am. Entry is £10 for club members and £12 for non-club members.

Running conditions are expected to be good on Sunday, with a slight breeze and temperatures reaching a high of 19C.