Britt Ekland launches Portsmouth Great South Run

Hollywood star and former Bond girl Britt Ekland has been in Portsmouth to launch this year's Great South Run, reports the BBC.

The 67-year-old Swedish actress is an ambassador for the Alzheimer's Society - the chosen cause for October's race.

Organisers of the 10-mile (16km) road race are hoping to attract a record 23,000 entrants in its 21st year.

Ekland, known for her role in The Man with the Golden Gun, said her mother had Alzheimer's and she had "made it my mission" to raise awareness.

She added: "My mother had it but we were told go home there is no cure, no support, no nothing.

"I have kind of made it my mission in life to make up for what I couldn't do for her."

The film star was joined by former Southampton manager Lawrie McMenemy who will also be supporting the Alzheimer's Society and its participants in this year's race.

Last year, the men's race was won by Mo Farah, from London, who beat Stephen Mokoka by one second to finish in 46 minutes and 26 seconds.

Ines Monteiro took the women's title in 52 minutes 32 seconds ahead of fellow Portuguese Ana Dulce Felix.

Apart from elite athletes, the race attracts celebrities, sports stars, club runners and fundraisers.

The race has been held in Portsmouth since 1991 and the route passes many of the city's most famous landmarks.

Millions of pounds are raised for good causes each year.

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