NEARLY 100 people have already signed up for the Maldon Mud Race 2018 which is set to take place more than a month later than normal.

The historic and world-famous mud race returned greater than ever in May this year with 300 runners cheered on by a 13,000 strong crowd.

Registration is now open for the race in 2018, which will take place on Sunday June 10, more than a month later than its usual April or May slot due to tidal movements.

The race is limited to 300 contestants in total, and organisers have already had neatly 100 runners register to take part.

Chairman of the Mud Race Brian Farrington said the interest so far has been ‘phenomenal’.

He said: “The race will be later next year due to tide changes.

“However, we’ve had almost 100 people sign up already which is a phenomenal amount of interest.

“We’re already in negotiations with potential sponsors for next year’s event, and there’s a great deal more interest than ever before.

“Because the race was once again broadcast on TV this year, the national media and national companies are more interested in it, so we have the potential to be getting big sponsorships from big companies.”

Entry to the race costs £50 per person to help cover the running costs of the event.

This year, the race was sponsored by decorating, glass and building merchants Kent Blaxill.

Brian added: “The entry fees certainly help with the running of the race, as all of the funds raised by the competitors we really want to give to the charities. We’re always committed to supporting the local charities and organisations, and it’s something we’ll continue to push.”