SUCH is the popularity of the Dartmoor Discovery ultra marathon 2015 that all 240 race places were filled within six days of entry forms becoming available.

The event, which starts from Princetown on Saturday, June 6, will be hard-fought on the demanding hills of Dartmoor. The DD, a 32-mile race organised by South West running club the Teignbridge Trotters, is the UK's longest single-lap road race.

Starting and finishing at Princetown in the heart of Dartmoor, the DD attracts some of the country's top ultra distance runners, as well as hardy enthusiasts of all ages and many West Devon runers. It combines stunning views with several tough hills and notoriously unpredictable weather, resulting in a true test of body and soul.

An estimated 150 people, including members of the Dartmoor Radio Club, help out on the day in a variety of roles, from marshalling and timekeeping to staffing water stations and providing catering.

The Dartmoor Discovery (DD) ultra marathon is calling on one of the most respected figures in the distance running world to present the prizes at this year's race. Graham Baker, of the Mid Essex Casuals Running Club, will be handing out trophies in Princetown – just hours after having completed the notoriously tough course himself.

Race director Roger Hayes, who is also chairman of the Teignbridge Trotters, said: 'I'm thrilled to welcome Graham back to Princetown as part of Team DD. Graham is a hugely respected figure on the ultramarathon scene and he is particularly revered among Dartmoor runners, since he has completed all 16 DD events! The guy is a legend and I can't think of anyone better to hand out the prizes on race day.'

This year, the race welcomes a major new sponsor, Dartmoor Brewery of Princetown.

Graham Baker will be lining up alongside 2014's winner and course record-holder, John Ward, of Bideford AC. Last year, John finished in a stunning time of 3.29.24, smashing his own 2012 record of 3.33.36 in the process. Westbury Harrier Lucy Richens won the 2014 ladies' event, completing the course in 4.16.04 – an impressive time in her first ultra marathon.

Last year, a record 202 finishers crossed the line in Princetown.