RUNNERS are limbering up to take on a 5km challenge in aid of a local hospice this weekend.

Scores of runners are expected to take part in the The St Teresa’s Hospice Summer Fun Run at Darlington’s South Park takes place on Sunday.

The race kicks off a year of running events under the banner “The Hospice 4”.

Backed by event sponsor the Bannatyne Group, this brand new series of events will see runners challenge themselves in four individual 5km runs, each of which will be chip-timed for instant results.

Jane Bradshaw, chief executive of the hospice said: “Running is so popular at the moment. We have seen our 5k Santa Run grow over the years, and this year we wanted to build on this to do something bigger and better. Each of the Hospice 4 events are open to runners of all ages, abilities, shapes and sizes; dogs are welcome too. For the Summer Fun Run we want to see everyone in their brightest summer colours and fancy dress.”

Participants will be awarded part of a unique jigsaw medal, after completing each seasonal run, and are encouraged to sign up to all four challenges to collect the set.

Places are still for Sunday and those wishing to take part can register on the day at South Park from 9.30am. The run is set to start at 10am.

There is an entry fee of £15 for adults aged 16 plus and £5 for children aged five-15. Children under the age of 5 can enter free of charge.

Dan Gray, Deputy Regional Manager of The Bannatyne Group North East, said: “We are keen to do as much as possible to support our local community and that includes working with a number of local charities throughout the year.

“St Teresa’s Hospice provides an invaluable service to families across South Durham and North Yorkshire at an extremely difficult time, so we are proud to be a sponsor. The Summer Fun Run event is a great opportunity for people to raise money for an amazing charity, while getting some exercise and making the most of the summer weather.”

Chip timing results from the Summer Fun Run will be published online after the event at the Hospice’s Facebook Page. Runners will be notified.

Completing the “Hospice 4” are the Halloween Fun Run at South Park on Sunday, October 28, the Darlington Santa Run at West Park in Darlington on Sunday, December 2, and at the same venue the St Patrick’s Day Fun Run on Sunday, March 17. Entry for all of the remaining “Hospice 4” events is open at www.darlingtonhospice.org.uk