A LANDMARK event is set to return to the town's sporting calendar after a 32-year hiatus.

Organisers have revealed a final date for the Bolton Marathon, which will be coming to the borough on Sunday May 17 next year.

It will be the first time Bolton has hosted a marathon since 1987 - but organisers are aiming for an ambitious return.

The event is aiming to be the first marathon in the world to operate without products made from single use practice.

"We’ve put so much hard work into getting this far and we’re excited that this iconic race is going to be returning to the streets of Bolton once again," race director Rich Smith said.

"We know we’re being ambitious but that is what makes us unique.

"We want to change the way mass participation events are run by reducing our impact on the environment as well as giving something back to the community and we know that Bolton can deliver this and more."

As well as aiming for a world first, the marathon will also be going for the top spot as Best Road Marathon in the UK and will compete against iconic races, including those in Manchester and London.

In addition, there will be a 10km race and a family fun run, with the action based around the Athlete's Village in Queen's Park.

Race organisers, Bolton Marathon Ltd, had hoped for an autumn date but, due to a very busy event calendar across the borough, a late spring race was chosen which the group hopes will secure the longevity of the event in future.

All profits from the event will be donated to the Bolton Marathon Community Trust Fund, which was set up by Bolton Marathon Ltd to support residents, charities and organisations to be more active and lead healthier lives.

It is hoped that the race will generate £25,000 for the fund in its first year.

Athletes looking to enter the Bolton Marathon can register interest at www.boltonmarathon.com.