RUNNERS still have time to register for this year’s OX5 Run – and organisers want them to set their alarm clocks tonight ready for the big race.

The clocks go forward an hour during the early hours tomorrow, so if runners are not careful they could end up being late for the 10.30am start.

The 10th anniversary run takes place around the grounds of Blenheim Palace in Woodstock and organisers are hoping 1,000 runners will raise a total of £100,000 for patients at Oxford Children’s Hospital.

Hospital spokesman Sarah Vaccari said: “One very important thing to remind everyone is that the clocks go forward tomorrow morning.

“We are thrilled that we now have nearly 850 people signed up and hopefully we will meet our target of 1,000 runners on the day.

“This is our biggest fundraiser of the year for the hospita.

“Every single person taking part is making a difference to children who need it most.

“It is always a special day – Blenheim is a beautiful place to run around – and seeing so many local people coming together to support their children’s hospital is inspiring.

“This year we have many parents and medical staff running, as well as huge support from Oxford United, Oxfordshire Fire Service, Oxford Bus Company, RAF Brize Norton and many local businesses like our sponsors Allen Associates, and other local firms.”

The fun starts with a Zumba warm-up with George Martini at 10am before people gather at the start line at 10.15am.

Chef Raymond Blanc and Oxford United’s Kelvin Thomas will start the runners off at 10.30am.

Jack FM staff are staging an outside broadcast and there will be a bouncy castle and face painting, to keep children amused while the run takes place.

Online registration has now closed but people can still register on the day if they get there early enough.

People who have not registered online can sign up at the registration tent by the Pleasure Gardens before 9.30am. It costs £12.50 to register on the day.

Ms Vaccari added: “We want to say a huge thank you to all those who are taking part in the run.

“Now is the perfect time to send an email round to friends to ask them to sponsor you – you will be amazed by how many people want to help if you just ask them.”

Last year’s event raised £60,000 and is funding a mobile intensive care unit and a chill-out room for teenage cancer patients.

Runners who registered after March 16 can collect their number tomorrow morning from 8.30am at the registration tent. Runners need to be aged 16 or over.

The race is organised by the Oxford Mail and promotions manager Jo Coady said: “We are hoping it will be the best year yet. If you’re not running, sponsor a friend who is.”

  • For further information, visit ox5run.co.uk