Preparations are under way for this year’s Paul Trigwell Island Run.

It will be held on Sunday, May 10, with entrants being urged to wear wartime clothing to commemorate the 70th anniversary of VE Day two days earlier.

Evacuees, Land Army girls, 1940s housewives, dodgy-dealing spivs, a member of Dad’s Army, aircraft and tanks are given as examples of how people might choose to dress.

The run is in its ninth year and includes two- and 10-mile distances as well as a 10-mile relay.

It was organised in memory of popular Islander Paul Trigwell, who was head teacher at St George’s Primary when he died in 2006.

Money raced from the race will go towards a memorial fund set up to support the “social, emotional and academic development of our young people” on Sheppey.

Last year, a record-breaking 682 people took part, and in nine years the run has collected £106,000. Fiona Trigwell, Paul’s widow, who traditionally fires the starting pistol for the races, said: “We want to raise £10,000 or more this year, and we’d love to see last year’s record entry beaten.

“Primary schools made a fantastic contribution and, as in 2014, a trophy will be awarded to the school which produces the most participants.

“We’re looking forward to seeing lots of fancy dress and lots of Union Jacks in honour of VE Day.”

As in previous years, the 10-mile walk will be the first event to start, at 8.30am from the green opposite Leysdown pitch-and-putt course.

The 10-mile run will begin from 10am at the same place, while the two-mile relay gets underway from 10.30am at the Beach pub.

All races end at Beachfields Park, opposite the fair. Visit www.ptir.org.uk to register, but entrants can sign up on the day.