A BRITISH athlete is calling on Andover residents to make their New Year’s Resolution to sign up for a Stroke Association Resolution Run.

Jo Pavey MBE, long-distance runner and World, European and Commonwealth medallist, has teamed up with the charity to encourage people to take part in a 5k, 10k or 15k Resolution Run, of which one is being hosted at Thruxton Race Circuit on Sunday, 11 March.

The 43-year-old said: “You don’t have to be a medal-winning athlete to take on a Resolution Run for the Stroke Association. These events are ideal for people who are putting on their trainers for their first charity run, through to more experienced runners. The added bonus is that the funds you raise will help even more people recover from a devastating stroke.

“As a mother juggling the demands of being a full-time athlete, I know how tricky it can be to find the time to train. I often push a buggy on my training runs and clock up miles on the treadmill whilst the kids are in bed. The Stroke Association offers support every step of the way to help you reach your New Year goals. So make a resolution that counts this year and sign up today.”

Over 30 runs will be held all across the UK from 25 February - 22 April 2018, with runners able to choose their distance.

The events are open to all ages and abilities, and participants can run, jog or walk their way to the finish line.

Tammy Angus, community and events fundraiser at the Stroke Association, said: “A Resolution Run is exactly that – a resolution for the New Year that counts. It's the ideal event for families and friends in Andover who want to do something fun together while getting more active in 2018. Every five minutes across the UK, someone’s life is turned upside down by stroke. By signing up to a Resolution Run, each runner will help us ensure that we can continue to support stroke survivors and their families as they rebuild their lives.”

The money raised through the Resolution Run at Thruxton will help the Stroke Association to fund vital research and support people affected by strokes.

Entry fee is £16 and all runners receive a running t-shirt and medal.

For more information about entering or volunteering at the Resolution Run, go to stroke.org.uk/resolution, email resolution@stroke.org.uk or call 0300 330 0740.