THERE are just a few days left for anyone who wants to take part in the Tidworth 10k Race to register.

The event, which is jointly organised by Salisbury District Hospital’s Stars Appeal and the Army, has increased in popularity since it started in 2005 and has raised over £80,000 for the appeal.

Nearly 1,000 people have already signed up for this year’s challenge, which takes place on November 1, but there are still a few places available for any running enthusiasts to take up before Monday’s deadline.

Aspire Defence, a joint venture between Carillion and KBR that aims to improve soldiers’ lives, is supporting this year’s event, which is a key part of the Stars Appeal’s annual fundraising.

Colin Kenton, Tidworth’s garrison facilities director for Aspire Defence Services Limited, said: “We are delighted to be able to support the Tidworth 10k Race and 3k Fun Run. We are committed to improving the quality of life for the soldiers within the garrisons and now we can extend that support to our local community through the Stars Appeal.”

Dave Cates, director of fundraising at the Stars Appeal, said: “It’s great that a company who are so important to so many service families in the Salisbury area have been able to support this event. Aspire Defence’s support is vital to help cover the costs of running this event.

“This year our focus is on our Caring 4 Kids Campaign, which aims to help fund a new children’s unit here at Salisbury District Hospital. This will make a huge improvement to the lives of around 6,000 children a year who visit the hospital, and about 15 per cent of those children are from service families.”

There is also a 3k fun run and both runs are open to runners of all abilities. Register online at www.starsappeal.org or contact the Stars Appeal on 01722 429005.