THE owners of Southampton Docks are throwing their weight behind one of the South’s biggest mass running events.

Associated British Ports (ABP) are responsible for the handling of millions of tonnes of cargo passing through what is one of the country’s biggest ports.

Now the firm is pledging its commitment to the city by signing up as headline sponsor for the Southampton Half Marathon and 10K 2016 for the second year running.

It comes as organisers Marafun UK urge eager runners to make a fresh start to the year by signing up to the flagship race.

This year’s event promises to be even bigger and better than the inaugural event which ignited Sotonians' passion for sport and captivated audiences in what was the first race of its kind in the city for a generation.

• Southampton Half Marathon 2015 - in pictures >>

Marafun UK has extended the celebrations over the whole weekend with a series of races kicking off on Saturday, April 23, ahead of the main run on Sunday, April 24 and has almost doubled the entrance to 10,000 runners.

Once again ABP is partnering up with the organisers to fund, organise and promote the 13.1 mile race – building on the success of last year’s extravaganza which raised more than £100,000 for good causes.

A new main route has been developed starting in Guildhall Square and taking in some of the city’s most cherished landmarks including the Bargate. the QE2 Anchor and St Mary’s Stadium, before a grandstand finish back at the Square.

There is a shorter 10km route, plus the launch of a Family Fun Run and a Schools Challenge created to inspire the next generation of athletes and generating friendly competition between local schools.

ABP is also spearheading the recruitment of an army of charities and community groups joining up as ABP Milemakers who will line the route to cheer on participants along the route.

• Register at abpsouthamptonhalf.co.uk

Groups signing up will receive a £200 donation from the maritime company. ABP Southampton director, Nick Ridehalgh, said: “We are delighted to once again be involved in such a great event for the city, local community and the running world.

"This year we are expecting to see up to 10,000 runners taking part and hope to raise even more money for the Admiral of the Port, the Right Honourable Mayor’s charities and many other wonderful local causes. There are still a few places left, so register soon and get training.”

Chris Rees, race director, said: “After the success of last year’s event, we are so excited that the ABP Southampton Half Marathon and 10K has become an eagerly awaited fixture in the city’s sporting calendar.

"We can’t wait for the whole city to get involved one way or another, be that racing, mile-making or supporting from the sidelines.”

Charities due to benefit from this year’s event include Rose Road, Southampton Air Cadets and the Saints Foundation.

Half marathon entry costs £35.99 and £23.99 for the 10K.

The Schools Challenge costs £7 with £5-£7 entrance for the Family Fun Run.