ROMAN soldiers reappeared on York streets yesterday to urge modern day residents to lace up their running shoes for charity.

Entries are now open for the 2015 York 10k, and thousands of runners are being encouraged to take part and raise cash for good causes.

The annual race will take place for the seventh time this year, on Sunday, August 2 starting and finishing from the Knavesmire.

Julie Ward, manager of sponsors Asda Foundation , said: “The York 10k is one of the highlights of the Asda Foundation series of events. We would like to wish good luck to all those taking part who raise vitally-needed funds for many good causes.”.

As many as 6,000 people are expected to line up on the start line, and mini and junior runs will give youngsters the chance to take part as well.

The 2.5km junior event is for 9-14 year olds and the 1.5km mini event is open to 3-8-year-olds accompanied by an adult.

York based charity Family Fund is for the first time official charity partner for the Arena Mini and Junior runs.

The charity helps low income families with disabled or seriously ill children by giving grants for everything from washing machines to holiday vouchers, and communications manager Jim Paterson said the runs were a great opportunity for children to help other children.

"We really strongly believe that disability shouldn't be a barrier to anything. Last year in Yorkshire we helped 5,200 families and 68,000 across the UK.

"This is a great chance for us to raise money, and to be involved in something in York as a lot of people do not know we are here."

The junior events are sponsored by the Arena Group, and the company'sAdrian Fitzpatrick said: “We are proud to be sponsoring the York Mini and Junior run for a fifth consecutive year. The children taking part and their families always have a really fun and memorable day.”

And for the first time this year a Team Challenge will give groups of at least four chance to take part together and lift the title of top team. There are three categories - open, mixed and female - and no upper age limit.

To enter go to www.runforall.com.