Runners are on their marks for the fifth annual Canterbury Half-Marathon in aid of Pilgrims Hospices.

The race will be held at Canterbury Rugby Club at 10.30am on Sunday, May 24.

Among those taking part is first time entrant Susan Booth, the hospices’ head of fund-raising and marketing.

She said: “I started my training just after Christmas and this will be the first time I have ever run that far!

“I’ve been told that the course is quite challenging, hilly in places but I’m sure there will be a great atmosphere there on the day to keep me going.”

Organisers are hoping to attract 1,000 runners. Pilgrims has hospices in Canterbury, Thanet and Ashford and needs to raise £7.5million a year to deliver its care.

Former London Marathon winner Mike Gratton will be among those taking part.

Click here to download an entry form>>>

For more details call 01252 373797.