IRONKIDS on your marks!

Registration for the world's largest Ironkids race opens on Friday ­— and is set to be even bigger when its returns next summer.

Due to the phenomenal demand for the event, five hundred extra places have been added.

That means a total of 3,500 places will be available for the run on July 11, 2020. Registration for the popular race will open at 1pm.

The event has become a key annual fixture on Bolton’s sporting calendar following its introduction seven years ago.

The race takes place in the town centre and the main Ironman event ­— a gruelling 140.6mile triathlon ­— takes place in and around Bolton the following day.

Bolton Council’s Chief Executive, Tony Oakman, said: “We are proud that Bolton hosts the largest Ironkids in the world. The event attracts children from across the country and last year, the race sold out in just four hours!

“We’ve grown the race because we know just how popular it is ­— adding 500 places means even more children can take part. We are expecting places to be snapped up again.”

The race is open to children aged three to 14 with different distances depending on the school year of the child.

Each child will receive an Ironkids t-shirt in their entry pack and a medal after completing their run.

Ironman UK Race Director, Sam Brawn, added: “We are thrilled that Ironkids is returning to Bolton for another year! This amazing event continues to grow, and we are excited that an additional 500 places will be available. The weekend will offer something for the entire family, and we can’t wait to cheer everyone on as they cross the famous Ironman finish line!” Registration will open at https://bit.ly/2KfMPZJ. To enter, complete the entry form, fee is £4 per child.