ENTRIES to Run Frimley, an annual event which includes a 10k road race and a 2.5k fun run, are now open and will raise money for Frimley Park Hospital’s Stroke Appeal.

Both races start and finish at the hospital on Sunday, April 30, and are arranged by the Frimley Health Charity. Organisers are calling for more people to pound the pavements to ensure that this year’s event is as successful as last year.

Whether experienced runners or those wanting to encourage their children to enter their first race, Run Frimley has something for everyone.

Andrew House, head of fundraising at the Frimley Health Charity, said: “This event isn’t just aimed at serious runners. Over the years we’ve seen whole families enter both races. The atmosphere was electric in 2016 and we’re anticipating the same for this year.”

Participants can even walk the routes and fancy dress is encouraged, especially over the shorter distance. Revisiting a popular theme, this year runners are invited to dress as superheroes. There will be a competition for best dressed on the day.

The charity is looking to raise £320,000 for the stroke appeal which Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust will match pound for pound, creating a target of £640,000. Organisers hope the popular Run Frimley event will raise a significant portion of their fundraising goal.

Money raised will be used to enhance the stroke unit with a new courtyard garden plus a building extension that will improve patients’ experience of their stay.

Some stroke patients may spend weeks or even months on the stroke unit, so it’s especially important to make their recovery as comfortable as possible.

Last year more than 2,000 runners raised £60,000 for the Breast Care Appeal which contributed towards the purchase of a new state-of-the-art 3D mammography machine, which increases early detection rates of invasive cancer.

All runners in both events will receive professional chip timing and a finisher’s medal. There are prize categories in the 2.5k fun run for under-15s and under-11s.

Fundraising manager, Keith Hanks, who is based at Frimley Park, said: “Run Frimley has evolved into a really family-friendly and fun day out. The event gives people an opportunity to get together with family and friends and support their local hospital.

“It’s a big date in the community’s calendar and we are incredibly grateful to every runner who takes part and the crowds that support them.”

Registration for Run Frimley closes at midday on April 27. Participants can sign up online at www.frim

leyhealthcharity.org/event/run-frimley-2017/. The 2.5k fun run starts at 9.30am and the 10k road race starts at 10.30am. Entries to the 2.5k fun run cost £7 for adults and £5 for children under 15. The 10k road race costs £18 per person with groups of four people or more charged at £16 per person.

This year’s principal Run Frimley sponsors are estate agents Vickery & Co.