THERE is an extra incentive for anyone planning on keeping fit or running a marathon as a New Year’s resolution.

Those who sign up for the Brathay Windermere Marathon before Wednesday (December 31) will be saving money as well as shedding pounds with their early bird offer.

Experienced athletes to first-timers are invited to run an anti-clockwise 26.2 lap around Lake Windermere taking in the honey-pot sites of Hawkshead, Newby Bridge, Bowness-on-Windermere and Ambleside.

Alongside the marathon, which coincides with the last day of the Brathay 10in10 marathon, it is a Family Fun Day. The day sees runners, supporters and visitors raise thousands of pounds for the Ambleside based charity Brathay Trust and their work with young people.

The organisers hope the 2015 Brathay Windermere Marathon, their ninth and held on Sunday 17 May, will attract 1,300 runners.

The early bird offer is £35 for club members associated to England Athletics and £37 for unattached or independent runners.

Entry includes timing chip, electrolyte sports energy drinks and bottled water at seven refreshment stations and the finish line, medal, trophies and prizes for winners in all age categories, and a goody bag.

Further information at www.brathaywindermeremarathon.org.uk/the-marathon.aspx.