RUNNERS from north Trafford are being invited to sign up for next year's ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon - which takes place in April.

The event was officially launched in the borough by race director Simon Hill on Tuesday and Cllr Sean Anstee was among those who attended the launch at Spinningfields in Manchester.

Race Director Simon Hill launched the 2015 race and officially announced the date, race details and opening of registration in front of official sponsors and partners, representatives of the official charities, media and key figures from Trafford Council.

The ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon 2015 also incorporates team relays, giving runners who don’t want to cover the full marathon distance the opportunity to take part and experience the race day atmosphere by signing up for either the 2 Leg Half/Half or the 4 Leg Team Relay. The MLP Solicitors Corporate Entry is also a new addition to the 2015 race.

Early bird places for the ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon in Trafford are available until September 1 and cost £43 for affiliated runners, and £45 for unaffiliated runners and wheelchair entries.

More than 200 runners signed up for the race at the launch event, and the first 50 entrants on the day received a free ASICS goody bag.

Race Director Simon Hill commented: “I am pleased to announce that registration to the ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon 2015 is now officially open.

"We already are the UK’s flattest, fastest and friendliest marathon, and we are on track to become the UK’s number two marathon. I’d like to express a big thank you to all our sponsors and partners for their continued support, and to all the runners who choose Manchester as their spring marathon destination. We are looking forward to delivering another great race next April.”

Anyone interested in signing up for the Marathon shoul greatermanchestermarathon.com for further race details and to register.