The three-kilometre Run for the Children event will be held at the Mountbatten Centre, Portsmouth, on Sunday.

The aim of the day is to raise money for the Children's Trust, which specialises in caring for children who have suffered brain injuries.

But the organisers are desperate for more runners to come forward to make the day go with a bang.

Kate Allen, of Run for the Children, said: 'At the moment we still have room for lots more runners, so I'd urge anyone who wants to do some exercise in aid of a good cause to sign up.

'It's a really fun day out. We want to get kids and their parents outside together and exercising together – all in support of The Children's Trust, which is a fantastic charity.'

The event is supported by the city council, local schools and running club Havant AC.

Between them they will be providing face painting, a bouncy castle, a gladiator duel, circus skills and tri-golf tournament, as well as a fire engine, cheerleading demonstrations and soccer skills classes.

All entrants are encouraged to raise sponsorship for The Children's Trust, which helps children with multiple disabilities after brain injuries.

The money raised will go to funding a brain rehabilitation unit located at the charity's base in Tadworth, Surrey.

Annabel Anderson, the national organiser of Run for the Children, said: 'We are delighted to be welcomed into Portsmouth for this event. It's so important for families to teach their children about healthy lifestyles and this is such a fun way to do it. We are all very excited.'

A complete list of all the runners will be featured in The News on Tuesday.

n Those wishing to run in the race can sign up on the day or via the Run for the Children website at www.runforthechil dren.co.uk

newsdesk@thenews.co.uk