Hundreds of bands will be on the run at next month's OX5 Run, through the grounds of Blenheim Palace.

That's because everyone entering the five-mile event to raise money for the Oxford Children's Hospital will be sent a bright red wristband.

One side of the band is emblazoned with the words "I'm running the OX5RUN 2007" and the other says: "I ran the OX5RUN 2007".

The rubber wristbands also carry the Children's Hospital's "Little People Big Needs" campaign logo and the Oxford Mail logo.

The Palace, at Woodstock, could become a sea of red on race day as the limited edition centimetre wide bands are being sent out with a sponsorship forms to all participants.

A total of 3,000 have been produced and it is hoped they will become a 'must have' item - like our limited-edition Oxford United bands, which proved hugely popular last year.

advertisement Oxford Mail newspaper sales manager Margaret Marsh said: "People should be proud of the fact they're running the OX5 and helping such a worthy cause as the Children's Hospital.

"These bands are a great way for people to advertise the event and hopefully encourage as many people as possible to get involved."

Entry for the event on Sunday, March 25, is £12. Anyone interested in taking part is advised to enter in advance, using the form printed below, to avoid queuing to register on the day.