Have you signed up for this year’s Herts 10K yet to raise funds for local hospice care?

The countdown is on for Sunday October 6, when the iconic race returns - with a new venue and new routes - and its founder wants you to know why you should take part.

Chairman of St Albans City Football Club, Lawrence Levy, set up the event 19 years ago in a bid to unite the community to raise much-needed funds for local hospice care.

Since it began the event has raised millions to fund vital specialist care and support for adults and children with a life-limiting illness.

Lawrence explained that the 19th annual race will take place at the new location of Herts County Showground where Rennie Grove Peace are offering a new 5K route and a 1k family-friendly fun run route to be more inclusive and to get people into running.

Lawrence said: "What better way to get your kids out and show them the benefits of running and the value and power of coming together as a community.

"Plus, this takes them out into the fresh air and off their screens for a few hours."

(Image: Rennie Grove Peace)

Lawrence, who is also one of the charity’s Vice Patrons added: "Thousands of elite and beginner runners have taken part over the years.

"So, whatever your ability, grab your running shoes, do something great for yourself and your family, and feel even better knowing you are supporting a vital local charity that will one day help you or someone you know."

The 10K is open to runners aged 14 years and over while the 5K is open to children aged 11 years and over.

The fun run is open to everyone, but children under the age of eight years need to be accompanied by a paying adult.

Director of fundraising at Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care, Tracey Hancock, said: "The Herts 10K is a much-loved and well-supported event in the area so we’re delighted to be making changes this year to make it even bigger and better than ever before.

"Regular runners have a new route at our brand-new venue to look forward to, while the new 5K and fun run options have opened the event up to the whole family.

"Every penny raised by the event will be used to fund our vital hospice care services for local people who are living with a life-limiting illness."

Standard entry to the 10K race costs £30 with tickets for the 5K costing £16 and the fun run at just £10 per person.

10K and 5K runners will receive a T-shirt, and medal on finishing and will be chip timed. Fun runners will receive a treat at the end of their race.

To find out more visit www.renniegrovepeace.org/herts10k