People are being urged to put their best foot forward and raise money for good causes by taking part in one of this year's Carvers Wolverhampton Marathon events.

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Thousands of runners, cyclists and walkers are expected to take part in the annual fundraiser, which takes place at West Park on Sunday 6 September, 2015.

This year's events include a full 26 mile marathon, 13 mile half marathon, 10km run, 20km cycle ride and 3km walk, wheelchair event and a special mini marathon for the under 14s.

All proceeds will go to Compton Hospice, Beacon Centre for the Blind and Wolverhampton Samaritans. Also set to benefit are the Mayor of Wolverhampton Councillor Ian Brookfield's chosen charities, which include local foodbanks, the Kingswood Trust, Bilston Remembered, West Park Rehabilitation Hospital and Interfaith Wolverhampton.

Mayor Councillor Brookfield, who will be starting the races before jumping on his bike for the 20km cycle ride, said: "The Carvers Wolverhampton Marathon is a fantastic event which also raises thousands of pounds for local good causes.

"I'd encourage anyone who is able to take part to sign up today, and help make this year's event one of the biggest and best ever.

"There are a range of events to take part in - whatever your age or ability. You don't need to tackle a full marathon; there's a half marathon, shorter run and short walk, and cyclists can get on their bike for the 20km ride. There is also a wheelchair event and a mini marathon for children, and you can either do it to test yourself or simply for fun.

"Not only is this event a great way to support local charities, but also gives people the chance to enjoy exercise in the wonderful surroundings of West Park."

Fellow Councillor Paul Sweet, who has lost around 6 stone since launching a high profile fight against obesity last year, will be competing in the half marathon for the first time.

He said: "When I began my weight loss challenge I was over 22 stone and the prospect of running a mile, let alone 13 miles, would have been completely out of the question.

"My goal has always been to improve my health and fitness to such a level that I would be able to complete the half marathon, and I'm really looking forward to taking part - and raising money for good causes at the same time."

For more details about the Carvers Wolverhampton Marathon, and to sign up for one of the events, please visit Type=links;Linkid=6401;Title=Wolverhampton marathon events;Target=_blank;. Please note, participants must register in advance as they will not be able to do so on the day, though entries can also be taken at West Park on Saturday 5 September from 10am to 5pm. Registration forms are also available at the Civic Centre.

  • People can get in shape for the marathon events by taking part in Wolverhampton Parkrun. It is free with participants running for their own enjoyment and at their own pace. Parkrun takes place every Saturday morning from 9am in West Park, please visit Type=links;Linkid=6402;Title=Wolverhampton Parkrun;Target=_blank; more details.

     
  • released: Thursday 30 July, 2015