FAIRIES, pirates and superheroes are expected to feature in this weekend’s Oxford Fun Run.

Runners are expected to don an array of colourful creations for the 5km run around University Parks on Saturday.

This year’s nominated charity is Pathway Workshop for the disabled, in Blackbird Leys, and its staff will be taking part.

People of all shapes and fitness levels are urged to sign up, with organisers promising there is no need to run all the way round.

The race, organised by Oxford Rotary Club, has raised thousands for Oxfordshire charities since it began in 1989.

The Pathway Workshop pays and trains people with physical and learning disabilities to learn woodworking and machining skills to make garden furniture and animal habitats.

Some 17 of its 19 staff will take part. Runners can also raise funds for other charities.

Pathways managing director Mike Kyle said: “I am delighted with how many want to walk or run in aid of the charity they work for.

“It is more of a social occasion than an athletic one and I expect the majority of us will choose to walk.

“We are hoping that lots of people will take part this year.”

Mr Kyle added: “We receive no money from the Government, so events like this form a vital part of our income. We have a balance between our commercial income and charitable donations.”

Runners can register beforehand by visiting the event’s website or on the day, from 9.45am.

The RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team will drop-in at 10.35am.

Oxford East MP Andrew Smith, honorary president of Pathway Workshop, will start the event at 11am and present prizes afterwards.

Last year more than 400 people raised £14,000 for charities including Pathway Workshop, Headway, Age Concern, New Life, Mind and Pegasus Theatre.

John Healey, spokesman for Rotary Club of Oxford, said: “We are delighted to continue supporting Pathway Workshop through the Rotary Oxford Fun Run and Walk for the Less Able.

“Now in its seventh year and becoming ever more popular, thousands of pounds are being raised through the event for a number of local charitie.

“It is a pleasure again to be giving our main support to this wonderful charity that deserves everyone’s support.”

To sign up for the event, visit oxfordfunrun.org.uk