WITH the road running season in full swing there are two opportunities to compete in t over the increasingly popular 10k distance in mid-Kent next month.

The Larkfield 10k takes place from Larkfield Leisure Centre on Sunday, September 14, starting at 11am.

One week later, on Sunday, September 21, the Maidstone Race Day 2003 will be promoted in aid of the BBC Children in Need Appeal by Maidstone Harriers (www.maidstoneharriers.co.uk).

The accurately measured Larkfield course has an uphill start and finish in New Hythe Lane.

The route will take competitors through Larkfield, Leybourne, Birling and Snodland before returning to Larkfield though the lakes on footpaths.

Entries cost £7 (£8 unattached) in advance and £10 on the day. Entry forms are available from Larkfield Leisure Centre on 01622 719345 or on the website www.larkfieldleisure.co.uk.

The Maidstone 10k race starts at 11am and follows an undulating route from Westborough Sports Centre through Allington and the long climb up Hermitage Lane past Maidstone Hospital before returning to the start down Queens Road.

The entry fees are the same as for the Larkfield 10k, but there are additional family fun runs on the programme at Maidstone.

Under 11 boys and girls are invited to run 2k within the Oakwood Park complex starting at 10am, while older children and families can run the 4k starting at 10.15am with awards and spot prizes to all finishers.

Entry fees for the fun runs are £3 and £4 respectively and all the proceeds are in support of the nominated charity. For information visit the Maidstone Harriers website or telephone Grant Woodman on 01580 892803.