Some of the most experienced runners in the UK will tackle King's Lynn's popular Grand East Anglia Run tomorrow.

The 10k road race, more commonly known as GEAR, is also hosting this year's British Masters Championships and should see a healthy pack of aging athletes join the field of around 2,000.

Roger Partridge, West Norfolk Borough Council's sports development manager and race director, said: 'We're set for a really exciting event this year. We are going to get some excellent competition.

'We have the added excitement of hosting the British Masters Championship which has attracted some of the country's top veteran runners. Locally Malcolm Tuff and Matt Pyatt should come in under 35 minutes in their respective categories. We also have Gordon Lee competing, who was ranked number one in the country at 10k in his age group M45). I think we are going to see some really impressive performances.'

Lee could win the overall race with last year's victor, track record-holder Tedele Geremew, likely not to feature in this year's event which brings thousands of people to the town centre.

Ladies' champion Faye Fullerton is back to defend her title however and will be among the front-runners of the women tackling the course which starts and ends in the Tuesday Market Place.

The race sets off at 10.30am and will take in the surrounding waterfront and Walks park – which will be lined by cheering crowds to support the competitors, many of whom are taking part to raise money for charity.

Patridge said of the Bespak-sponsored event: 'Entries are coming from all over the country. GEAR is definitely building a big reputation.'