AN OLYMPIC athlete sounded the starter’s horn as young people and adults got active in the Castlepoint Fun Run.

Poole’s Liz Yelling, who is also a Commonwealth Games bronze medallist, was on hand as children aged eight to 13 took part in one-mile races at the Littledown Centre, with a 1.5-mile run for ages 14 and 15 and a half-mile event for the under-eights and their families.

The day, the third time the event has been held, raised cash for Access Dorset and was topped off with a 5k challenge for those aged 16 and over.

Speaking to the Daily Echo, Liz said she had been visiting schools to get them involved.

She added: “It’s really here to promote activity among youngsters, they can come along, enjoy the run and enjoy the atmosphere.

“It’s not necessarily about being the best and we also have an adults’ 5k.

“With the 2012 Olympics looming our goal is to have 2012 runners running by 2012 essentially, but the main ethos behind it is to get the kids active.

“Anybody of any ability or any age can have a go.

“This is real grass-roots really. It’s about having a fun morning here and doing a bit of activity.”