A RECORD number of participants are expected to flock to Cumbrae this weekend for the annual Millport Ten Miler Fun Run.

The popular island event, which helps kick off the summer season on Cumbrae, raises funds for two charities in honour of Millport man Michael Righetti, who sadly passed away several years ago.

Tens of thousands of pounds have been raised since the event started, with this year’s funds going to Parkinson’s Scotland and Dementia UK.

Michael’s sister Marina Dobbin, who took over the run in 2019, says organisers are hoping for a record turnout on Sunday.

She said: “The forecast is fantastic for the day of the event and we are hoping for more walkers and runners than ever before.

“We had 310 participants last year and this time we are hoping for more, with the good weather and the pandemic firmly behind us.

“A lot of people use the run as training for bigger events throughout the summer like the Glasgow half marathon.

“There’s a great mix of runners, walkers and joggers and it’s a very casual affair with a really relaxed atmosphere which people love.”

Marina is keen to stress that despite the ongoing flood defence works on the promenade, the island and the ten miler are both raring to go.

She explained: “There is a lot of construction going on in an area we would normally start of the run on the seafront.

“However, the company has very kindly offered to come along and open some of it up for us so that the run route is unaffected.

“We have not increased the price of registration this year so it is still £20 per person, and the first male and female will get a trophy.

“Every penny goes towards the two charities in memory of Michael so it really is worthwhile taking part.”

The ten miler takes place the day after the Millport Classic Car Show and the crowning of the Cumbrae Queen, with the weekend traditionally kicking off the island’s summer season.

Marina hopes visitors will flock to the island for the events, which can provide a welcome boost to local businesses.

She added: “It’s going to be a busy weekend with the car show, queen crowning and then the ten miler.

“It will hopefully bring a lot of people over, who can then stay for the weekend and support our local businesses.

“Anyone wanting to take part last minute can come along to Garrison House from 9am on Sunday, bringing their £20 registration fee and we will have forms available to sign.”

For more information go to the Millport Ten Miler Fun Run page on Facebook.