Great Yarmouth's charter year of 2008 will see the launch of a new annual event - a 10 kilometre run which will end with a public celebration in the Market Place - but it needs support from local organisations.

The Borough’s Cultural Partnership is working with the Great Yarmouth Road Runners club to develop the run which will take in heritage and regeneration sites such as the seafront, Regent Road and St George’s Park.

“We would like it to be known as the East Coast Run and become the kind of event, like the Great North Run, which attracts thousands of visitors into the Borough,” said Community Services Head Marie Hartley.

“At the end of the race there will be a big cultural event with music, arts activities and food and drink - a real carnival celebration.”

The big run is scheduled for October 2008 - earlier in the year during March there will be a series of events to celebrate the 800th birthday of the Borough of Great Yarmouth.

Its foundation being taken as the Charter of King John which made it a free borough, giving it self governing powers reflecting the town’s importance as a key trading centre.

“We are very pleased to be working partnership with the Council in planning this race,” said Karen Manning Race Director for Great Yarmouth Road Runners.

“Our runners have experienced similar town based events around the region and know just how much they can give the home town a boost. There is an added element as 2008 is also a significant year for the club, as we will be celebrating our 20th anniversary.”

“The 800th anniversary of the Borough is an important occasion,” said Councillor Bert Collins, Cabinet Member for Enterprise Tourism and Culture.

“There couldn’t be a better time to create a new annual event - and it will have all kinds of elements to attract a wide range of people.

“We will need to secure funding so we are exploring every avenue including asking if local businesses, organisations or individuals will give us their backing. And of course we also need local groups to play their part by providing activities and entertainment.”

To learn more about the East Coast Run or to pledge sponsorship contact Marie Hartley on 01493 846354 or email mlh@great-yarmouth.gov.uk.