NEXT month's Town and Gown 10k race will see up to 4,000 people pounding the pavements of Oxford to raise money for Muscular Dystrophy UK.

More than 50 of them will be fundraisers from Headington School, who have put together a team of parents, staff and pupils in the hope of promoting a healthy lifestyle alongside raising cash for a good cause.

Deputy head co-curricular Simon Hawkes said: "I'm running for Team Headington for three reasons: firstly it's brilliant to be able to do something you love – a Sunday run – and to know that you're supporting a great cause.

"Secondly, having a team of runners from across the school community, including teachers, sends a really positive message to our pupils about the benefits from a healthy active lifestyle.

"And thirdly, running for a team might just give me the motivational boost I need to beat my personal best."

Deputy head pastoral Ricki Smith said he was really looking forward to the race, which will wind through the dreaming spires of Oxford.

He said: "I am delighted to be taking part in a local event that allows me to raise money for an excellent cause.

"Running the Town and Gown allows Headington School to be an active part of the Oxford community, and on a personal level, keeps me fit and healthy too."

Muscular Dystrophy UK's Sal Lalji said she was very grateful to the Headington School students for giving up their Sunday mornings to tackle the Town and Gown.

She said: "Each of them will be helping us to improve the lives of other young people, affected by muscle-wasting conditions, across the county and beyond.

"The support from Oxfordshire schools has truly been fantastic this year.

"A record-breaking 170 children and young people are already entered into our junior 3k race, and there are still a few weeks left to sign up and join in."

The cost for the 10k race for an unaffiliated runner is £25 and £23 for an affiliated runner. This is open to those aged 16 and older.

Costs for the 3k run, which is open to those aged between nine and 15, costs £12.

Muscular Dystrophy UK is also looking for volunteers to help out on the day, which would involve tasks such as handing out water and marshalling the start and finish lines.

To find out more email: events@musculardystrophyuk.org or call Muscular Dystrophy UK on: 0207 8032884.