THE Island's premier running event, the Isle of Wight Festival of Running, gets underway this morning (Sunday) featuring runs for adults and children at St Helens Duver.

Organised by the West Wight Sports and Community Centre, the festival has so far attracted 510 entries across its events.

The highlight will be the Needles Half Marathon next Sunday, June 5, which starts and finishes at the centre, taking runners on a rugged route over Tennyson Down.

Also that day will be the Freshwater 5K and the Needles Junior Fun Run.

The Duver Dash today, hosted by Bembridge Harbour, features a 5km fun run for adults and a 1km route for children, with a second lap option.

Clare Griffin, WWSCC manager, said: “This year’s festival coincides with the Platinum Jubilee, which makes it extra special.

"We’re looking forward to another splendid event and are very pleased to welcome familiar faces and new friends.

“As ever, we are grateful to the marshals and other volunteers who work behind the scenes, to make the festival possible.”

The Duver Dash gets underway with the 5K at 10am and the junior run at 11am.