WILTSHIRE Air Ambulance is offering keen runners the chance to have a coveted place in the Bath Half Marathon and raise money to keep its lifesaving helicopter running.

General public entries for the 13.1 mile run on March 4 are sold out but the air ambulance charity has places available to people willing to pay £33 for their place and to pledge to raise at least £200.

Fundraising and events co-ordinator Kenresa Stratford said: “We have a number of places available in the 2018 Bath Half Marathon and would love for people thinking about taking on an exciting challenge to come and join our inspirational team of runners. You could run it with your friends or colleagues.

“The Bath Half is one of our key fundraising events and we are excited to be part of it. As well as running in one of the most popular half marathons in the South West, the funds raised by our team of runners will help to keep our aircrew and helicopter flying and saving lives. Last year’s half marathon raised over £23,000 and we are so grateful to all the runners who took part and everyone who supported them by donating.

“If you would like to join our team we will support you with fundraising tips, sponsorship forms and a half marathon training plan. On the day itself you will receive a running vest, goodie bag and lots of support from our charity team and volunteers.”

The deadline for entries is January 25. Email kenresa@wiltshireairambulance.co.uk or ring 01380 739453.