More than 700 people took part on Sunday in the first annual Run for Autism marathon, held in Ayia Napa.

Held on the occasion of World Autism Awareness Day, the run started in Nissi Bay and continued the length of the Ayia Napa-Ayia Thekla coastal road.

More than 700 runners took part in the 15K event, while dozens of children aged eight to 13 participated in a special 1K route in memory of Iakovos Triaros.

The marathon was held under the auspices of Transport Minister Yiannis Karousos and the mayors of Ayia Napa and Sotira.

Announcing the start of the race, Ayia Napa mayor Christos Zannetou said it was a “celebration of sports, volunteerism and philanthropism.” He added that activities raise awareness, support people with autism spectrum disorders and their families, and give impetus to the fight against ignorance and prejudice.

Zannettou expressed satisfaction that such an event took place in Ayia Napa and congratulated the organisers, the Autism Support Association and the Smile Project, and pledged the ongoing support and assistance of the Ayia Napa municipality for the cause.