Grab your running shoes and follow the Pied Piper

6.37.37pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 22nd Jun 2007

Richmond Council is appealing for runners to take part in the annual 'Pied Piper' 5km charity fun run to raise money for children and young people with special needs.

The event will be staged in Bushy Park on Sunday, 29 July and is being organised by the Otakar Kraus Music Trust and the Three Wings Trust, which both help children and young people with physical, psychological, learning and behavioural difficulties. Competitors, each looking for sponsorship, are invited to dress up in costumes that represent the Pied Piper of Hamelin. Face painters will be on hand to draw whiskers on the faces of competitors. Over 100 people took part last summer and this year's event will feature an additional 8km course and a special route for children and wheelchair users.

Cllr Malcolm Eady, Cabinet Member for Children's Services and Education, said:

"Last year's fun-run was a triumph and the event promises to be even more popular this time around. Children with disabilities deserve as much support as we can give and this is an opportunity for the whole community to have fun and raise money to help provide quality services. The Council works closely with local organisations to help improve the lives of people with disabilities in the borough. The fun run has been specially designed to include two routes, one for adults and one for young children and wheelchair users. Whether you are able to take part or just cheer on family and friends I would urge you to come along and show your support."