MUM-OF-TWO Amanda Elliott is getting in shape for the OX5 Run after both her young sons were treated at Oxford Children’s Hospital.

Mrs Elliott, 37, made several visits to the hospital on the John Radcliffe site in Headington last year for treatment for her sons James, two, and Sam seven months.

Sam was admitted twice with the breathing condition bronchulitis, while brother James needed treatment after suffering a febrile convulsion.

Mrs Elliott, who works as a financial controller for a motor racing management company, said: “It was a worrying time for me as a parent, but when I was in the hospital I realised there were some very sick children being treated at the time.

“Each time I visited the hospital the staff showed a lot of patience with everyone and did everything they could to reassure me.

“I saw children at the hospital who were quite ill and it made me thankful that the children’s hospital is right on my doorstep.

“In the past I have done the Great North Run on Tyneside and Race for Life in Oxford, and I wanted to give something back to the hospital by taking part in the OX5 Run.”

Mrs Elliott, of Reedmace Road, Bicester, said she would take part in the five-mile run around Blenheim Palace in Woodstock, on Sunday, April 18 with sister Kate Iles, 30, whose daughter Eleanor is two.

She added: “Kate and I did the Great North Run, a half-marathon in 2002, so I should be able to do the OX5 Run, although I have had two children since.

“I haven’t done much running lately, so I’m going to try some gentle training around the streets of Bicester.”

More than 700 people took part in the race last year, raising an estimated £57,000. Organisers are hoping 1,000 runners sign up this year to raise £65,000 for new toys and equipment.

Singer Jason Donovan, who launched the event in 2007, has agreed to start the race again this year.

Hospital spokesman Sarah Vaccari said: “We are really delighted that Amanda and Kate have decided to support the hospital by taking part in the OX5 Run.”

She added: “The money raised makes a real difference, allowing us to buy extra equipment and keep the facilities first class for local children.

“With two months to go before the event there is still plenty of time to get some training in.

“Hopefully Oxford Mail readers will be inspired to pull on their trainers and sign up for the event.”

For the second year running, the race is being sponsored by recruitment consultants Allen Associates based at the East Point Business Park, Littlemore.