RUNNERS are hoping to raise plenty of cash for charity by taking part in a gruelling race which will test strength, endurance and co-ordination.

Simon Hancock, 42, of South Marston, is part of a team of five from Swindon taking part in the 10k Mud Runner Oblivion event, in Herefordshire.

The team are training under the watchful eye of Ollie Burt, of Centimany Fitness at Broad Hinton, and are all raising money for charity – and Simon has chosen the Down’s Syndrome Association.

The charity is one close to Simon’s heart as he and wife Mandy have been staunch supporters since their son Charlie, nine, was born with the condition.

“The Swindon Down’s Syndrome Group recently received the Queen’s Award For Voluntary Service – an MBE for volunteer groups,” said Simon, who is a general manager for a freight company.”

Not only is the event, which takes place on May 8 at Eastnor Castle, a running race but 10 obstacles will also be impeding the team’s progress.

Simon said: “This is not going to be easy especially when you note entrants must be able to swim on the small print of the course details.”

Joining Simon will be Mark Luffman, who is raising money for the Brinkworth Cats Football Club along with Danny Flack, Bob Campbell and Geoff Pearce, who are all raising cash for the Tiger Sharks Swimming Club.

To sponsor Simon log on to www.justgiving.com/ simonh10k.