Hundreds of runners will take part in a memorial race to pay tribute to a police officer who died after a bike accident.

Superintendent Neil McCover, 55, died after his bike collided with a car in East Renfrewshire last October.

Now, almost 12 months on, friends are preparing to run the Neil McCover Half-Marathon in memory of the keen cyclist and runner, a former chairman of Kirkintilloch Olympians running club.

Coach Neil was described as an inspiration and fellow runners at the club want to pay a lasting tribute to him.

His widow Margaret, 57, and daughter Lauren, 23, have been asked to start the race and present the prizes on Sunday, October 9, at Woodhead Park, Kirkintilloch.

It is hoped it will attract more than 1500 runners for the event that has a total prize fund of £2000.

Race director Robert Rogerson said: "Neil is sorely missed by everyone at the club. He was an inspiration and had such enthusiasm for running. He coached the juniors section and the youngsters feel his loss even more so. He was someone who really knew how to motivate people.

"We wanted to remember Neil and before he died we had talked about resurrection a half-marathon in Kirkintilloch. There hasn't been one for around 20 years and we thought this would a fitting tribute."

Robert added: "I think it will be an emotional race for many of us, just a day after the first anniversary of Neil's death.

"We have had great support from his former colleagues. We also wanted Neil's family to be very much part of the day and we have asked them along to get it under way. In addition, £1 from every entry will be donated to Brake, the road safety charity."

Neil was based at the police training and recruitment centre in Jackton, East Kilbride.

Strathclyde Chief Constable Steve House said he was a "popular, valued and highly respected officer".

Neil had competed in marathons, duathlons and triathlons including international races and European Ironman.

Mrs McCover, 57, said: "It is very touching that a race is being held in Neil's memory. I am sure he would have been very proud."

For more information visit www.kirkintillocholympians.co.uk or enter online at www.entrycentral.com/index.php?raceID=101212