Runners taking part in an annual race up Ben Nevis have been told to keep off the grass.

The area known as the grassy bank has been declared off limits after Scottish National Heritage warned it was in danger of erosion.

Anyone running down the bank on their descent will be permanently disqualified from the race, organisers said.

The 14k cross-country race is being held on Saturday with 600 entrants taking part.

One of the oldest timed runs in the world, The Ben has been held in its current form since 1937.

Because of the gruelling conditions and severity of the course, entry is restricted to those who have completed three hill races.

Runners must carry waterproofs, a hat, gloves and a whistle.