15-year-old Conor, an S3 pupil at Gleniffer High School, is aiming to conquer the 10K after being victorious in the last two editions of the shorter Fun Run.

Conor joined Councillor Jim Harte, convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Sport, Leisure and Culture Policy Board, to remind runners to sign up as soon as possible and start training.

The Kilbarchan Amateur Athletics Club athlete has been running in the event since 2008. This year will be the first time he is old enough to run in the longer race, and it’s a challenge he’s relishing.

Conor said: “This race has always been an inspiration to me – training for the Fun Run was my incentive for first joining the running club.

“My coach John Rodger has taught me so much and helped me improve each year. Now, I want to test myself in the bigger race and see how fast I can finish and how high up the field.

“I’d encourage anyone my age and younger to sign up for the Fun Run and give it a go – you just never know what it might lead to!” Cllr Harte said: “Paisley 10k Road Race and Fun Run has been the springboard to success for many local athletes and Conor might just be the next one.

“Their stories can be inspiration to the rest of us, whatever age we are, to look out our trainers and sign up.” “Even if you’re unlikely to ever be an elite athlete, you’ll get a tremendous amount out of the challenge of training for the race and taking part.” Anyone wishing to run can enter online at www.paisley10k.com or pick up an application form from local sports centres and libraries. Race entries will be received until August 29.

Paisley 10k Road Race and Fun Run race is sponsored by MEPC Hillington Park.