A sled dog racer set to compete in the 2010 Finnmarkslopet event hopes her experiences last year will aid her push for glory.

Melanie Clegg from Manchester is currently training for the Arctic Circle meeting, which kicks off on March 13th 2010.

She told the Manchester Evening News a quad bike has come in handy during the sessions, as her sled is lighter, meaning her canine companions should find it easier to pull during the race.

As the event celebrates its 30th year, Ms Clegg expects there will be a lot of media interest, meaning it is important she builds on her 41st place finish in the 2009 race.

She remarked: "The dogs have an amazing memory and will remember the course from last year so hopefully that will give me an advantage."

Earlier this month organisers of the event revealed there will be more people taking part in the race this year than ever before.