RUNNERS and non-runners alike are being urged to dig out their trainers and sign up to this year’s Tidworth 10k in aid of the Stars Appeal Breast Cancer Unit campaign.

The event, which is celebrating its tenth anniversary, is on November 2 and includes a 3k fun run for all those wanting a gentler route to raising money.

All sponsorship will go towards the Journal-backed campaign to raise £750,000 for a dedicated Breast Unit at Salisbury District Hospital.

The unit will enable the hospital to offer faster diagnosis and treatment for patients, with same day diagnosis and state-of-the-art equipment along with purpose-built waiting, diagnostic and treatment rooms, and counselling rooms for women who have just been told they have cancer.

It will also mean patients will no longer need to visit other departments or repeatedly dress and undress for mammograms and scans.

The Royal Tank Regiment is assisting the organisation of the 10k run next month.

Salisbury Journal:

Gemma Heath, events and community fundraiser for the Stars Appeal said, “We are enormously grateful to the Army for their continued support which ensures that this popular event can go ahead.

“The new unit will help over 4,500 local patients each year, from across Wiltshire, Hampshire and Dorset. Perhaps even you, a friend or a member of your family.

“The unit is urgently needed so we would encourage people to sign up and raise as much money as they possibly can – and why not run in pink to show your support!”

Following on from last year’s participation in the event, a team from the Journal is about to start training for the run.

Head of sport and team leader, Joel Holt, said: “Last year’s 10k was tough but thoroughly enjoyable.

“It was great running with my fellow colleagues and our efforts raised more than £1,000 for the CT Scanner Campaign. Not only is it rewarding raising money for such a worthy cause, but the feel-good atmosphere of the day is infectious.

“I’m in the process of starting my training for next month’s event, which should keep me fit during the cold winter months.”

The sporting event was the brain child of Tidworth-based Signal Squadron soldiers Paul Munslow and Mark Morgan, who wanted to do something to held the local hospital that had cared for many of their fellow servicemen and their families.

Runners have since raised more than £230,000 helping to fund projects at Salisbury District Hospital, such as a keyhole cancer surgery theatre, a family accommodation unit for the parents of premature or critically ill babies and two CT scanners.

All participants will receive a special medal to mark their achievement, with extra prizes for those raising above £75.

The 10k run starts at 10.45am at Tedworth House with the 3k taking place just before at 10am on the polo pitches. Runners are asked to arrive at least 45 minutes before the start of their race.~

To sign up visit http://www.starsappeal.org.