The Muscular Dystrophy Campaign is appealing to local readers to register now to run on its behalf in the 2009 Blackpool Half Marathon.

Participants who excel at fundraising will be rewarded with some great Sportswear and each participant running for the charity will also receive a top quality running vest to show their support for the charity on race day.

Regional Fundraising Manager, Charles Horton, said: “We are urging local people to raise sponsorship for the Blackpool Half Marathon to help us in the fight against muscle disease.

"Please contact me today for an entry form or for sponsorship forms if you have already entered.”

An estimated 7,000 people in the North West are directly affected by one of more than 60 forms of muscle disease, which result in the progressive breakdown of muscles, leading to varying degrees of disability - some forms severely reduce life expectancy.

The Muscular Dystrophy Campaign funds internationally acclaimed medical research to improve treatments and runs a care service in the UK, providing practical advice and emotional support for families, while also vigorously campaigning for improved services.

The race, open to runners over 17 years old, takes place on Sunday 5 April 2009 starting at 9am.

To run in the race to raise funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign, call the Regional Office on 01244 403012 or e-mail charlesh@muscular-dystrophy.org