CONFUSION surrounds the future of a new ultramarathon due to take place next month after runners claimed BCP Council hasn't given permission for organisers to hold the event.

The 50k Run to the Sea ultra is set to take place on March 28. Participants were due to run from Ringwood to Hengistbury Head.

Organisers at company UltraViolet say runners will follow the Castleman Trailway for much of the route before racing along the seafront.

However, those set to take part next month now say council officials from Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole have not given permission for the event to take place.

Many have also raised concerns about the course's 33 road crossings.

Now a council spokesperson appears to have confirmed the route is likely to change.

Complaints have been made via the Run to the Sea Facebook page.

One would-be racer asked organisers: "Do you have permission from the council to run on the seafront yet?

"Are the 33 road crossings going to be marshalled for the safety of runners?"

Another said: "I always thought you needed a permit to race on the seafront and roads – if you don't have permission, how are you going to get to people if they're in medical trouble?

"If you're on the seafront without permission, is the insurance now worth nothing?"

Rumours are also spreading about the event's cancellation, although organisers have taken to the social media page to reassure participants.

An official UltraViolet post responding to the concerns reads: "I am not sure who is spreading rumours, or why, but as far as we are concerned it’s 'race on'."

Bournemouth Tourism has refused to confirm if permission has been granted for the race to take place along the seafront. However, this week an official said a route has not been confirmed.

A spokesperson said: “We are currently working with the event organisers to find a suitable route so the event can run smoothly."

The Daily Echo has contacted UltraViolet for comment.