Dinosaur fun run in aid of Manx disability charity

More than 470 people have registered to take part in the fun run

Hundreds of runners dressed in dinosaur costumes are set to gather in the Isle of Man's capital to raise money for a charity that supports residents with a learning disability.

Organised by Expedition Limitless, more than 470 people have signed up for the Jurassic Sprint on Douglas Promenade, which is expected to raise £5,000 for Manx Mencap.

Participants in the 1.5-mile (2.5km) walk, jog or run will set off from the Sea Terminal at 14:00 BST on Saturday wearing inflatable Tyrannosaurus rex costumes.

Team leader Martin Malone said it would be "phenomenal and funny" and raise the profile of a charity that "provides a great support network for people with learning disabilities and their families".

The money raised will be added to £109,000 already raised by the team who recently kayaked hundreds of miles on a Canadian river in aid of the organisation.

Generosity

The event is the final fundraiser organised by the team, with others including a 24-hour canoe challenge ahead of the test of endurance in Canada in June.

The expedition saw a 17-strong group from the island cover 444 miles (715km) over 12 days on the Yukon River, camping in the wilderness of its banks along the way.

Mr Malone said the support and generosity of Manx people and businesses to raise close to £115,000 "gives you hope for the future".

"To raise that amount in the current climate, when times are hard, shows just how generous the Isle of Man is," he added.

The funds raised will be used to support an adult activity programme and a summer scheme for younger members.

Manx Mencap previously said the money would be "truly life-changing" for its members.