A HEALTHCARE charity is appealing for runners in Richmond to take on the Bupa Great North Run and raise funds to help it continue its work.

Sue Ryder supports people with long-term neurological conditions in six residential care centres, as well as people at the end of their lives in seven hospices, including two in Yorkshire.

The ballot for the popular half-marathon, which takes place in Newcastle-upon-Tyne on September 15, closes at noon on Monday, February 4 - meaning that supporters have just one week left to get their entries in.

But if any runners miss out on a place they can register with Sue Ryder to receive one of our own running spots, which will be released later this year.

Jenny Evans works as a nurse at Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice and took part in the Bupa Great North Run for the first time last year.

She said: “I can hardly describe the feeling and emotion as you cross the line.

“You don't think you have an ounce of energy left but the crowds, fellow runners and the Sue Ryder team motivate you all the way and help you keep going.” To sign up to run the Great North Run in aid of Sue Ryder before noon on February 4, visit www.greatrun.org/events.

If you fail to secure a place or do not enter the ballot in time, contact regional fundraiser Charlotte Stern to apply for a Sue Ryder place, on 0113-2033-363 or email charlotte.stern@sueryder.org.