RUNNERS are encouraged to act quickly if they want to take part in the 2012 Bideford Half Marathon.

More than 300 athletes have already signed up for the race.

Hosted by Bideford AAC, the 'Swift Half' is on March 4 and is set to be one of the biggest races North Devon has seen.

Now in its 18th year, the event has grown from just a handful of runners to more than 1,000 taking part last year.

Organisers hope to fill their limit of 1,500 entries this time.

Starting in the town at 10.30am, runners head along the main road to Torrington before turning for the homeward stretch along the Tarka Trail. The flat second half can make Bideford one of the fastest half marathons in the West Country, as seen with the winning times last year.

Peter Freeman, of Coventry Godiva, won the men's race in 68mins 6secs and Shona McIntosh, of Scottish club Hunters Bog Trotters, was the women's champion in 78-14.

Alan Heard, the race director, said: "We welcome runners of all abilities.

"The course is ideal for people hoping to post a fast time and for beginners trying a half marathon for the first time.

"There will be various bands playing live music along the route and we encourage the public to come out and support the athletes."

The race is particularly popular with women who made up almost half of last year's field.

Entry costs £19 for members of affiliated clubs and £21 for unattached runners. There is a £5 discount for over-60s. No entries will be taken on the day. All finishers receive a T-shirt.

For online entry visit www.bidefordaac.co.uk