The Women Can Marathon team are partnering up with South West Water to reduce amount of single use plastic during its annual event.

During its inaugural race last year more than 3,000 bottles of water were handed out to help runners stay hydrated throughout the 26 mile course.

To make the race more environmentally friendly, organisers approached South West Water, who will be sending a water tanker to the start and finish line of the race to reduce the amount of plastic.

There will also be larger bottles of water used at water stations along the route and runners are encouraged to bring their own refillable bottles to save the use of individual cups.

Jo Earlam, event administrator, said: “As a runner myself I’m very conscious when I take part in events of the resources that are used. Individual single use plastic bottles are convenient to drink from and easy to hand out, but they are the worst for the waste of water, sometimes only a few sips being taken by the runner, and for the impact of single use plastic on the environment.

“It was always our aim to have a more environmentally friendly option in place for 2018, and we’re delighted that this support from South West Water is enabling us to do that.”

Organisers have also promised any plastic and other waste generated will be recycled.

Currently more than 200 women are signed up for the event on Sunday, May 27, and on completion of the race will receive a double-sided medal which will celebrate the 100th anniversary since women won the right to vote.

Bob Taylor, South West Water’s operations director for drinking water services, said: “Plastic pollution is one of the scourges of our age.

“We are pleased to take this step to help protect the environment, and at the same time help keep the runners hydrated during the marathon and relay.”

Volunteers can currently sign up to act as marshals and run water stations along the route. Money from the event will be donated to four charities, Force Cancer Exeter, Exeter Dementia Action Alliance, BRACE Alzheimer’s Research, and Women in Sport.

To enter Women Can or register as a volunteer visit www.womencan.co.uk.