HELP raise money for Poole Hospital at this year's Daily Echo-backed Poole Festival of Running.

Entries are now open for the 35th annual event, which will be held in Poole Park on Sunday, June 5.

It features nine races for all ages, including the chip-timed 10k race, a 5k run and numerous races for children including the Minithon.

All participants are asked to raise a minimum of £20 in sponsorship, with proceeds going to Poole Hospital Charity this year.

Previously the event has raised tens of thousands of pounds for the hospital and Dorset Cancer Centre.

Farah Batchelor, Poole Hospital fundraising manager, said: "We are delighted to have been chosen as the nominated charity for this year’s Poole Festival of Running and thanks everyone for their support.

"It's a really important event for us as the money raised really helps us provide vital equipment for hospital wards and also improve facilities to enhance patient care and comfort."

Poole Hospital Charity fundraises for all the wards and departments at Poole Hospital ranging from the emergency department and children’s unit to elderly care.

It also provides extra funding for a wide range of additional treatments including radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Mike Towner, event chairman from Poole Runners, said: “Last year’s event was very successful and we just want to get as many runners as possible to sign up and raise money for such a worthwhile charity.

"If all runners raise a minimum of £20 in sponsorship you would help raise £30,000 in valuable funds for Poole Hospital.

"This is our 35th year of the festival and it would not be possible without the support of our sponsors Horizon Honda Poole."

Runners who raise £100 or more will receive a free technical running vest and raise £50 or more to receive a free Poole Hospital Charity t-shirt.

For more information about the Poole Runners and the Festival of Running, and to download an entry form, go online to www.poolerunners.com