THE Freckleton Half Marathon is the oldest Half Marathon in the country.

The first race was inspired by Ron Hill's entry into the Olympic Marathon at Tokyo in 1964 and took place on June 19, 1965.

By today's standards the entry was a modest one with some 53 entrants, mainly from local athletic clubs in Lancashire, but some from further afield.

The race was a success, not least because Hill had accepted an invitation to run and, in typical style, won the race in a time of 65.44, having already run a three-mile invitation race that afternoon.

In 1969, he set an event record of 64.45, which stands to this day.

All the previous winners have been invited to return for the 40th race on June 20. Race director Brian Porter said: "Some of these people will literally be travelling the length of the country to be with us.

"This will also be a rare opportunity to run in such elite company as the legendary Ron Hill."

Already over 200 athletes have entered and Porter is advising early entry with a record field in prospect. He can be contacted on 07759 829513.