SOUTHAMPTON could be set for a £1million boost when runners hit the streets this weekend to compete in this year’s ABP Marathon.

More than 10,000 people have already signed up to take part in the city’s biggest annual running event, on Sunday.

And with an estimated 30,000 spectators coming to cheer them on, organisers predict as much as £1 million could be spent in the city over the weekend.

The event also falls on the same day as Saints’ FA Cup semi final match against Chelsea at Wembley, and organisers are confident that the city will be as bustling as ever.

Organiser Nikki Rees said: “There’s a great deal of excitement among runners, residents and business people in the city.

“We know there are thousands of people preparing to come along and cheer on the runners.”

“Between our event and Saints’ game, it’s set to be ‘Super Sunday’ for the city of Southampton.”

In addition to the runners and spectators, an army of more than 850 volunteers will help to make the ABP Southampton Marathon a success.

Sunday’s event will feature a 10k, half marathon and children’s mile fun run as well as a full marathon.

All races start and finish in the heart of Southampton’s city centre with the run course taking in iconic local landmarks including the Bargate, Itchen Bridge, Riverside Park and the Common before reaching a stunning finish by the Guildhall in the city centre.

A new addition to this year’s route includes part of Weston Shore and, back by popular demand is the chance to run alongside the pitch at St Mary’s Stadium for half and full marathon distance participants.

Thousands of runners will be taking part to raise money for worthy causes and race organisers are hoping this could be the year they reach a milestone £1m raised for charity.