THE starting gun is set to be fired for a new Port Glasgow 10k community fun run.

A group of local runners, including ward councillor Chris Curley, are on their marks for the event on Sunday August 12 and they are hoping to encourage as many people along on the day.

The race will start and end at Coronation Park with the course taking in Kingston Dock, the town centre, Gourock Ropeworks, Kelburn Park, Newark Castle and Ferguson's en route.

It is being organised by the Port Glasgow Runners group, which was set up by local athlete Andrew McCall and includes Councillor Curley, his wife Angela and Jennifer McKechnie, who helped launch Inverclyde 'Couch 2 5k' last year.

Andrew said: "It's great to see the members of the group now encouraging others to take up the sport while getting out to explore areas of Port Glasgow they may never have known existed.

"Having been a member of Greenock Glenpark Harriers since I was a boy, I wanted to give something back to the community."

Councillor Curley added: "A run around the Port is a great excuse to get fit and see a bit of the town, no matter your running ability.

"We are lucky to have a great history and beautiful views in Port Glasgow and the race route combines both.

"I hope that the 10k race might encourage people from outside the area to visit to Port Glasgow.

"If it is a success we would like to expand next year to include a kids' fun run."

The race will start at 11am and the first runners are expected back from around 11.40am.

Keen runner Jennifer, who lives in the Port, said: "Being involved in the Couch to 5k, I've watched many people complete their first 5k and I'm hoping those same people take the next step and sign up for the Port Glasgow 10k.

"I'm excited to be involved with this event, it'll be great for the area."

Entry for the race costs £5 for adults, £3 for concessions and £1 for school pupils aged 15-18.

To register, email portglasgow10k@gmail.com