ONE of the most popular running events in south Essex is getting a new look to tie in with the 25th anniversary of the charity it supports.

The Jim Peters Southend Half Marathon benefits Havens Hospices through entry fees and sponsorship.

Havens Hospices this year celebrate a quarter of a century of providing specialist care to life-limited adults and children through respite breaks, end-of-life care and invaluable support.

After 13 years of starting and finishing at Southend Leisure and Tennis Centre at Garon Park, the event will now take in the sights of what the town is most famous for - the seafront.

The 13-mile run, taking place on Sunday, June 8, at 10am, will now start and finish at Shoebury East Beach and will be a two lap circuit turning at the Kursaal.

This will mean ideal conditions for a fast time with mostly traffic-free roads and flat surfaces.

Facilities will include refreshments, toilets, changing area, physiotherapy, massages and water stops along the route.

All finishers receive a medal with prizes up for grabs in the main categories.

Results will also be available on the day thanks to ChampionChip timing mats.

This event is organised by Roger's Runners and supported by Keymed and was named after the world famous marathon runner Jim Peters in recognition of his 80th birthday.

Peters was a big supporter of Fair Havens Hospice and actually used its In Patient Unit before he died in 1999.

Last year 996 finishers raised more than £26,000 for Havens Hospices.

In total more than £170,000 has been raised for the hospices by the half-marathon and BTMK Fun Run held in conjunction since they started.

It will cost non-affiliated runners £13 to enter and affiliated runners £11 with extra charges for registering on the day for the main race.

The BTMK Fun Run, sponsored by BTMK Solicitors is over a 3K route and is a good way to introduce children to running in a fun environment.

Also using ChampionChip timing, it costs entrants £4 each and they are encouraged to ask friends and family for sponsorship to maximise the donations for Havens Hospices.

To register for either event visit www.runnersworld.co.uk or call 01702 220 324 for an entry form.

You can alternatively enter by filling in one of the accompanying forms.

As in previous years trophies for the big day will be provided by Echo Newspapers.