SPORTS star Johanna Jackson is hoping people take inspiration from her Olympic efforts this summer and sign up for a major event in her home town.

The Redcar race walker is preparing to compete against some of the world's top athletes at the 2012 Games.

And she wants others to get into the sporting spirit once the London showpiece is over by getting themselves in the running for the 13.1-mile Redcar Half Marathon.

The event celebrates its 30th anniversary this year and will see hundreds of runners pounding the streets of Redcar on Sunday, September 30.

Organised by Tees Valley Leisure on behalf of Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council, it has become one of the region's most popular races over the past three decades.

Olympic hopeful Johanna said: "I'm always delighted to help promote the Redcar Half Marathon it's a fantastic occasion and one which brings a great boost to the town every year."

Jo was joined by last year's ladies' race winner Carolyn Summersgill, who said: "I really enjoy the Redcar Half Marathon. There's a brilliant atmosphere and lots of people out along the route to really help you round."

The half marathon starts at 10am, with the ten-mile wheelchair race setting off five minutes earlier.

Race organiser Ian Donley, Managing Director of Tees Valley Leisure, said: "Jo and Carolyn have been great supporters of the event and we'd love to see people following in their sporty footsteps by signing up for the event."