YOUNG runners are being asked to lace up their trainers and join schoolmates for this year’s Town and Gown race.

The event, backed by the Oxford Mail, is in aid of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign and takes place on May 11.

The event’s 3k junior race field almost doubled in size last year when 150 runners took part, but the charity would like to see even more young people getting involved, and local schools entering teams into the race.

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Rebecca Kelly, 14, took part in the run with six friends, dubbed the Orangettes to mark the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign’s signature colour. She said: “My brother has muscular dystrophy and my friends and I took part in the Town and Gown run in support of him.

“It was the first time I had done a running event and it was good fun running as a group – 3k is a good distance, long enough, but not too exhausting. Crossing the finishing line all together was the very best bit.”

Toya Champ, of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign, said: “Running is a great way for young people to stay fit and healthy and we have found it encouraging to see an increasing number participating in our 3k event.

“We hope people of all ages will come on the day and support hundreds of families in Oxfordshire living with muscular dystrophy and related neuromuscular conditions.”

The Town and Gown junior race is open to those aged nine to 15 years Visit oxfordmail.co.uk/ townandgown for more details on how to enter