Excitement is building as preparations gather pace for the return of a popular triathlon.

The annual Beccles Triathlon will see seasoned triathletes and first time competitors taking part as the event returns for a ninth year this Sunday, June 11 from 8.30am to noon.

Run by Beccles Lido and supported by Beccles Triathlon Club, a spokesman for the event organisers said: "It has become well known throughout the region as being a well organised, friendly event."

Beccles & Bungay Journal: The 9th Beccles Triathlon will be staged this weekend. Picture: Beccles LidoThe 9th Beccles Triathlon will be staged this weekend. Picture: Beccles Lido (Image: Beccles Lido)

It starts and finishes at Beccles Lido, and welcomes complete newcomers to triathlon and seasoned triathletes alike.

Beccles & Bungay Journal: The 9th Beccles Triathlon will be staged this weekend. Picture: Beccles LidoThe 9th Beccles Triathlon will be staged this weekend. Picture: Beccles Lido (Image: Beccles Lido)

The spokesman added: "This year’s event sold out in just a week and will see 200 competitors and relay teams swim 420 metres - 14 lengths - of Beccles Lido, cycle 12.6 miles in a loop through Geldeston to Ditchingham and back along the B1062, then run 4.2 miles to the Quay, around the towpath and back to the Lido."

Beccles & Bungay Journal: The 9th Beccles Triathlon will be staged this weekend. Picture: Beccles LidoThe 9th Beccles Triathlon will be staged this weekend. Picture: Beccles Lido (Image: Beccles Lido)

In order to ensure the safety of competitors, Puddingmoor will be closed to through traffic from 8am.

This spectator friendly event is watchable at the lido, along Puddingmoor or at Beccles Quay with further details at www.becclestri.com - which also welcome anyone interested in starting out in triathlon.