A renowned former student will officially start a primary school's running race.

On Sunday, September 29, Major General Sir Martin White will kick off Nettlestone Primary School's RAT Running Race.

Sir Martin, who attended the school between 1950 and 1957, is the Isle of Wight's highest-ranked veteran and has served as Lord Lieutenant, welcoming the late Queen and other royals to the Island.

The race, a significant fundraiser for the school, returned last year after a lockdown gap, drawing 109 entries.

Maj Gen Sir Martin White when he was IW Lord LieutenantMaj Gen Sir Martin White when he was IW Lord Lieutenant

Organised by Friends of Nettlestone School, the event offers a children's 600m race and a choice of a 5-mile or a 5km course around the parish of Nettlestone and Seaview.

The race is a community event with many families participating together.

Sponsors include Hovertravel and Grace’s Bakery, and this year's raffle prizes feature tickets to Ryde Superbowl, running shoes, and wine vouchers.

The children's race starts at 10am, followed by the 5km and 5-mile races at 10.30am, with a warm-up by local fitness instructor Phil Bell.

Last year's race was won by 17-year-old Louis Forster.