An Eastleigh-based car retailer will be supplying this year's Southampton Marathon with vital course vehicles.

Hendy Group, one of the UK's largest independent car retailers, will be sponsoring the event on April 6 by providing four vehicles to transport essential equipment, including the race timer.

The group will also have a team of 11 runners participating in various distances, raising funds for its charity, Hendy Foundation.

Hendy has been supporting the ABP Southampton Marathon, organised by ReesLeisure, for 16 years.

Mark Busby, director of commercial operations at Hendy, said: "Southampton has played a crucial part in Hendy’s 165-year history – it is where the business first started selling cars, and the city is now home to six of our dealerships.

"We’re thrilled to be a part of this community-driven, mass-participation event, with Hendy vehicles assisting with event organisation and transporting the all-important race timer."

Frazer Cook, service manager at Hendy Ford Fareham, said: "I took part in the Southampton Marathon last year and absolutely loved it.

"It was both challenging and fun, but knowing it was all for a great cause made it even more rewarding.

"I'm excited to be running again this year as part of Team Hendy, supporting Hendy Foundation and making a difference in our local community."