RUNNERS are being sought for this year's Ealing Eagles 10k with the aim of getting 600 or more people at the start line in Gunnersbury Park on May 19.

Nearly 400 runners completed last year’s race in September, and organiser Kieran Santry said he hoped the spring weather would encourage an even larger field.

He said: "The feedback from runners last year was fantastic and we’ve frozen entry fees to encourage as many people as possible to take part. It’s our club’s main annual fundraiser but we’re focusing on making sure it’s a
friendly and fun event for runners of all standards – and a great value one at that. Last year’s race sold out, so we’d encourage people to sign up as early as possible."

Entry costs £12 and runners will benefit from chip timing and bottled water during and after the race, with finishers receiving medals and a goody bag. Runners will also be able to download free photos of the race after the event.

Last year’s two-lap, off-road race was won by Italian Paolo Natali, of the Florence Marathon Club, who was more than three minutes clear of the field in 32:03. Chiltern Harriers’ Sian Thomas was the first woman home in 39:06.

Prizes will again be awarded to the top three men and women and the largely flat course - over grass, tarmac footpaths and trails – should again ensure quick times.

Ealing Eagles Running Club was founded in 2009. Its relaxed and fun approach to running – encouraging runners of all standards – has seen it grow to more than 400 members. For more details about the club, and the 10k race, see: www.ealingeagles.com