Romsey's Five Mile Road Race on Sunday will be the first competitive outing for many runners after a lay-off caused by the recent snow.

A field of between 400 and 500 competitors from all over the south and south-west is expected for the event, which is part of the Hampshire Chronicle Series.

For the first time runners will be carrying computer chips, on ankle bands, which will record their times. Times will be available later in the day on the race website.

Late entries can be taken between 9 and 10am at the race HQ in the Romsey School.

The race starts at 10.30am in Greatbridge Industrial Estate and follows a course through Fishlake Meadowss, Cupernham Lane, Woodley Lane, Braishfield Road and Belbins before coming back through Cupernham Lane and Fishlake to the finish in the industrial estate.

Prize giving will take place at the school at 12.15pm If residents have any queries about the course they can call 07971 299349. Race details are also available on the Concept Sport website.

The next event in the three-race series will be the Winchester 10K on February 21st.

A new event, a five-mile road race to be run at Broadlands in September, on a date to be confirmed, completes the series.