PROPERTY experts from Holiday Lettings will be swapping villas in Spain for vests in Oxford as they join thousands of runners taking part in the 30th Town & Gown race.

Six brave souls from the firm, based in Banbury Road, Oxford, will be taking part in the 10k race, which raises much-needed funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign.

Runner David Dixon, 30, from Oxford, said: “A big group of us did the Town & Gown a couple of years ago and really enjoyed it. Now we have some new members of staff and have got them involved too.

“There are a few competitive people taking part and some healthy office rivalry – but the main aim is to have a lot of fun, raise as much money as possible and make it through the 10 kilometres in the best time we can.”

Now in its 30th year, the Town &Gown 10k is the most successful sports event in the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign’s 50-year history.

Muscular dystrophy is usually diagnosed in children between three and five. Sufferers usually die in their 20s, after their respiratory muscles fail.

The run, which winds through the historic heart of Oxford and the stunning University Parks, regularly attracts more than 4,000 entrants, many in fancy dress.

Road closures enable spectators to line the route and runners to pass the city’s famous colleges and sights unhindered by traffic.

Mr Dixon added: “The first year I took part I was absolutely blown away by the atmosphere.

“To be cheered on and clapped by all those people is an incredible feeling and really spurs you on.”

He added: “I am hoping to run the course in under 43 minutes this year, but whatever happens I know I will enjoy it and I would recommend it to other people too.”

Town & Gown organiser Alun Mainwaring said: “We are expecting somewhere between 3,000 and 4,000 runners this year.

“Oxford can be really proud of that, and we are hoping that this year we will raise £100,000 for muscular dystrophy research.”

The 2011 Town & Gown run is next Sunday. For more information, see: muscular-dystrophy.org/oxford or call 020 7803 4820