OLYMPIC star Callum Hawkins is urging people to put their best foot forward at this year's Paisley 10k Race and Fun Run as entries open for the event.

The Elderslie man, who competes for Kilbarchan Amateur Athletics Club, is hoping for a bumper turnout on Sunday, August 20.

It will include a 10k road race, which attracts experienced club and international athletes, as well as a fun run for adults and children.

Callum crossed the line first, in a time of 30 minutes and 15 seconds, at last year's event, with older sibling Derek claiming the runner-up spot just 13 seconds later.

The Gazette:

He told The Gazette: "The Paisley 10k is a great event and one of the best 10ks in Scotland and I always try to compete here when my schedule allows.

"It was good to have a battle with my brother, he wouldn’t leave me alone, as much as I tried, but it was nice to come out on top."

Callum was recently joined in Paisley town centre by a group of young athletes from Kilbarchan Amateur Athletics Club who are planning to take part in the 10k race.

The middle-distance runners warming up for the event include 19-year-old Lewis Hannigan, from Paisley, 16-year-old Amy Teasdale, from Kilmacolm, 16-year-old Oliver Patton, from Quarriers Village and 15-year-old Zara Redmond, from Houston.

Callum said: "These guys are the future and the Paisley 10k is a great place for younger athletes to test themselves.

The Gazette:

"However, it's not just for serious athletes, the Paisley 10k is a great way to help anyone to get fit and active and set a target for themselves.

"Everyone can take part and just come along and have fun on the day – and I would encourage everyone to do so."

Those signing up for the event can enjoy an early bird discount until June 16, with online entries closing on August 18 at noon, as no entries are available on race day. 

The event, which is expected to attract more than 3,000 people, is supported by Renfrewshire Council and sponsored by Kilbarchan AAC.

There is more than £2,000 in prize money up for grabs in the 10k race and trophies for both boys and girls fun runners who are aged under seven, eight to 11-year-olds and 12 to 15-year-olds.

The Gazette:

Jim Blythe, regional sports co-ordinator at OneRen, said: "It's great to be back with one of the year’s biggest outdoor events in Renfrewshire.

"Whether you're a serious distance runner or someone who just wants to run for fun, Paisley 10k provides an amazing day out for all of the family.

"You can test yourself for a good time on the road, or jog through the sites of Paisley in the Fun Run and simply soak up the atmosphere with the crowds cheering everyone on.

"At OneRen, we're committed to providing opportunities for everyone to improve their health and wellbeing by getting more fit and physically active and the Paisley 10k is a great way to achieve this."

For more information about the event, visit www.oneren.org/paisley-10k.