Age UK is calling on runners to take part in its 'Wrap Up and Run' 10k event, taking place on Sunday 11th March in Tatton Park.
The event is part of a brand new series of 10k fundraising runs happening across the country throughout March.
Age UK is urging people to sign up, don their winter warmers and start their fundraising now so that they can do their bit to help support older people.
Participants will be raising funds for Age UK's annual Spread the Warmth campaign, which helps people in later life keep warm and well during the colder months. Spread the Warmth aims to tackle the fact that over 200 older people die needlessly from the effects of cold weather each day in winter.
Cheshire-based actress Victoria Atkin, who plays Hollyoaks' Jasmine Costello, has announced her support for the 10k event and is urging runners across the region to do their bit for Age UK.
Victoria said: "As a drama student, I realised I had a real passion for bringing different older and younger generations together through theatre. Helping to make sure that older people can enjoy later life is something that's really close to my heart, and taking on Age UK's 'Wrap Up and Run' 10k is a great way to keep fit and raise funds for a brilliant charity at the same time!"
The Mayor of Cheshire East, Councillor Roger West has chosen Age UK Cheshire East as his principle charity and supports the organisation's on-going campaigns.
He said: "This is a great opportunity to start training and get fit for the race which takes place in less than three months time.
"Not only will it help people shake off the post Christmas calories, it will raise much-needed funds for older people who often struggle to keep warm in the cold weather."
Fiona Jerman, Special and Challenge Events Manager at Age UK, said: "We are really excited to be launching our first 10k in Cheshire and we hope to see people across the North West taking part to make a real difference to people in later life.
"We need as many runners as possible to help us continue to Spread the Warmth to older people through vital local and national winter services – so please sign up today. Age UK will be with you every step of the way to help you think of creative fundraising ideas to capture the imagination of your friends and family!"
Age UK is working together with local charity Age UK Cheshire East to ensure funds raised by the 'Wrap up and Run' 10k event will support vital local services for older people living in the North West, as well as Age UK's national projects. Age UK Cheshire East offers a range of different services including exercise classes, a Help at Home service and day care sessions.
The race costs £14.95 to enter and is open to anyone who would like to run, jog or walk the 10k route. Email the Age UK Fundraising Events Team, visit www.ageuk.org.uk/10k, or call 0800 169 8787 for more details.
