Local businesses and companies will get the opportunity to put their new products on show to runners and the public during and before International Race Weekend as part of an Expo which is being held at No. 6 Shed on Front Street.

Among those who have already signed up for the promotion are the Seaview Health and Fitness Centre, newly opened on the North Shore in Devonshire, and Church Street based retailer Sports R Us -- and the latter is promising an extravaganza-style show. Competitors, used to getting a T-shirt for their efforts, can this year expect to receive bags of goodies from businesses taking part in the exhibition.

Myra Brayham, who is organising the event, explained: "The idea is to provide a good atmosphere -- not a carnival exactly -- but a little like the New York Marathon so there is a lot more fun and everyone is a bit more hyped up.

"There is also a real need for it from a tourism point of view.'' The Expo will run on Thursday and Friday from 3.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. There is still one booth left and any business or company interested in occupying it should call Ms Brayham on 291 3697.

INTERNATIONAL RACE WEEKEND RUNNING RUN MARATHON MAR