OLYMPIC rowing medallist Josh West has been lined up to start the runners at the Salisbury District Hospital Stars Appeal 10k and 3k runs at Tedworth house next month.

Josh was part of the eight-man crew which rowed into silver medal position in Beijing.

He said: "The Tidworth 10 and 3k run is a very popular event with so many people wanting to turn out to support the Salisbury District Hospital Stars Appeal. For me it’s a real honour to be asked to start the run and do my bit to help what is an extremely important cause."

Places for the runs are selling fast so the organisers are urging people to get their entry in sooner rather than later so they don’t miss out.

Both runs are open to runners of all abilities, and are again being sponsored by Salisbury-based vehicle checking firm HPI.

Dave Cates, director of the Stars Appeal said: "We are really excited about the new routes which have been organised by Headquarters 1 Mechanised Brigade and Signal Squadron (215).

“The 10k will take in the army camp itself before heading off on to Salisbury Plain, which can be quite challenging. The run has a definite military feel to it that you won’t get at other events. The 3k by contrast is a much less challenging route around the polo grounds and is suitable for all to run, walk or toddle.”

Organisers hope the event will take them a significant step closer to realising the ambition of opening a state-of-the-art Children’s Centre at the Hospital in 2010.

Runners are asked to raise sponsorship towards the Stars Appeal's Caring 4 Kids campaign, which is raising £1million for additional equipment and facilities for a new centre.

Alternatively, they can support another area of the hospital that is close to their heart. To enter online visit www.starsappeal.org or call 01722 429005 for an entry form.