ISLE OF WIGHT runners competing in this year’s Simplyhealth Great South Run can take along their young supporters for free, thanks to a special offer from Wightlink.

Around 500 people from the IW are taking part in the annual run in Portsmouth on Sunday (21), with many raising money for charity.

The ten-mile event takes athletes around historic Portsmouth, past The Hard and along Southsea seafront, giving runners an opportunity to enjoy views across the Solent as they head for the finish line.

Stuart James, director of marketing and innovation at Wightlink, said: "With so many people from the Isle of Wight taking part in the Great South Run, we wanted to make people aware of our Kids Go Free offer in case they were thinking of travelling across the Solent to cheer on a friend or loved one.

"It is a fabulous event which raises thousands of pounds for charity each year and provides a fun day out for families."

Between October 20, and November 4, including half-term, up to two children aged between five and 15 can travel free with every adult day return purchased on any of its cross-Solent routes. Under 5s are always free.

For full details of the Kids Go Free offer, go to: www.wightlink.co.uk.