THE team at a Basingstoke hospice are urging people to pull on their trainers to pull in some pounds.

People at St Michael’s Hospice are hoping that a record-breaking number of people will sign up for its annual Basingstoke Run, in which participants can choose to complete either a 5km or 10km route.

The event, which this year is sponsored by Unum, will take place at Down Grange Sports Complex on Wednesday, May 14 at 7pm.

Last year more than 450 people took part, raising more than £15,000 for the hospice, in Aldermaston Road. Organisers are hoping this year to raise more than £21,000 through the event.

Chris Griffiths, marketing and events manager at the hospice, said: “Last year was our best ever, with over 450 runners taking part, and this year we hope to top 500. It’s great to see women, men and children of all abilities running together at this fantastic event.”

John Letizia, head of public affairs and corporate social responsibility at Unum, said: “We are delighted to be sponsoring the run for 2014.

“Our Basingstoke office nominated the hospice as their chosen charity in 2012, and so we are very pleased to be able to support them again through our sponsorship. We are hoping to have Unum employees not only running but also marshalling and helping to set up the event.”

Registration for the event is now open. For more information, and to sign up, visit stmichaelshospice.org.uk/events or call 01256 848848.