Celebs back York 10k run for Jane (From York Press)

Celebs back York 10k run for Jane

12:20pm Thursday 15th January 2009 in News By Jennifer Bell, jennifer.bell@thepress.co.uk

NEARLY a quarter of the places on Jane Tomlinson’s York 10K run have already been snapped up, only days after it was launched.

Around 1,200 of the allocation of 5,000 places in the Run For All have now gone.

The event was officially launched on Tuesday and by mid-morning about 550 people had already signed up.

Graeme Hodgson, events director for the Run For All race, said people were registering as late as midnight, eager for a place.

The run, on August 2, will be a sister event to the hugely successful Leeds 10k – now in its third year – which Jane established before her death in 2007.

Jane’s widower Mike, who is organising the York race, said: “The response has been fantastic. At this rate we could be full very quickly.

“If people are thinking about entering, I would encourage them to sign up soon.

“Even if you have any doubts about running, you should still think about entering soon because the York 10K is intended as an event for people of all abilities and it really will be a beautiful course to walk.”

Meanwhile, the race has met with overwhelming public support, including a few celebrity followers.

Sports presenter Gabby Logan said: “Jane was an amazing woman in life and the fact that she has left a living legacy to the charities she supported through the tremendous events like the Leeds 10K and now the York 10K speaks volume about the affection she is held in by millions of people.

“With my own Yorkshire roots, I’m delighted we now have a second Yorkshire event in Jane’s memory.”

Paralympic athlete Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson described Jane as an inspiration. “She was an amazing person and it is wonderful that her memory lives on in the races that are sharing her name. I hope that lots of people feel inspired to run the 10K.”

Model and charity fundraiser Nell McAndrew said: “It is so amazing that more and more people want to take part in events like this to raise money to help others.

“Not only is it a great way to continue to support Jane’s Appeal but also charities of your choice, as well as looking after your own health and improving your fitness and well being.

“You don’t have to be an amazing runner to take part as you can walk, jog, run or wheel round the course – I can guarantee it will be a day to remember.”

To enter Jane Tomlinson’s York 10K 2009 or to volunteer for the event visit www.runforall.com.