ROSSENDALE opera singer Sean Ruane will be aiming to hit the high road as well as the high notes when he takes on the Great Manchester Run this weekend.

For Sean tipped by some as the next Russell Watson will get the race under way with his singing, before running the 10-kilometre event around the streets of Manchester.

More than 300,000 people are expected to watch the race, but it's not his vocal performance that is giving Sean sleepless nights.

Tenor Sean, who lives in Rossendale, said: "I think I'm more nervous about the run than I am about singing in front of so many people.

"I have been in training for several weeks now, but I have put myself under a little bit of pressure because I have never done anything like this before.

"I keep fit by playing football with my mates and going to the gym, but this preparation has been quite intense."

The internationally-acclaimed opera star recorded a special rendition of Jerusalem for a souvenir album celebrating England's Ashes success last year.

And he is now looking forward to taking on a new challenge.

Sean, who lives with his wife Louise in Rawtenstall, added: "It all came about when I was asked to sing at the start of the Great North Run last year. I got chatting with the organisers up there.

"They are also responsible for the Manchester race and before I knew it I'd agreed to run in this race. I am really looking forward to it.

"There are so many people I know who are also taking part, it should be an excellent day. I just hope I can get round the course in a respectable time."

This year 25,000 runners are taking part and organisers estimate that more than 300,000 people will line the route.