RUNNERS are set to stampede alongside zoo animals for the return of a unique race.

The Colchester Stampede 10k takes place on Sunday May 19 at 9am and starts and finishes in the grounds of Colchester Zoo.

The event is set to attract up to 1,500 runners and took place for the first time last year.

Starting alongside the elephants, rhinos, zebras and giraffes, the route takes runners around the rural closed roads of Colchester before returning through the zoo to the finish.

Money raised will be donated to the zoo's charity, Action for the Wild.

Online entries for £30 are open.

All finishers will receive a medal, limited edition T-shirt, free pre and post-race sports massage, free official photography, a goody bag and free entry into the zoo after the race (worth £23.99).

To register, go to www.colchesterstampede.com.