ENTRIES have opened for a lifesaving charity’s popular fundraising fun run challenge.

Cornwall Air Ambulance’s Runway Runaround is returning to Perranporth Airfield on Saturday, October 18.

There will be two runs taking place, the first is a 2.5 kilometre circuit for children up to 16 years old where they are encouraged to wear fancy dress.

One parent can run with their child at no additional fee as they make their way round the runway in one giant fun run,

Adults will then take to the runway for a 10 kilometre loop, where fancy dress is optional.

One of those who took part last year was patient John Stedman, who walked the entire 10 kilometre route just months after suffering a heart attack and being airlifted. He even crossed the finish line with critical care paramedic Paul Maskell, who treated him on scene and conveyed him to Treliske for the urgent onward care he needed.

John said: “It was lovely, it was great to see Paul again and it was really personal. Without the air ambulance I’m sure many people would lose their lives, or their outcomes from injuries would be far, far worse. It’s a lifesaver, there’s no doubt about that.”

Rob Foster from Cornwall Air Ambulance, said: “Runway Runaround was a huge success last year, with hundreds of you turning up in some wonderful costumes, and we’re thrilled to be bringing it back again. We hope you’ll join us for another fun event as we all help to raise funds for our local lifesaving charity.

“It is your additional fundraising, not just the entry fee, that makes a real difference to our lifesaving work.

“Anything that you can raise will help to keep Cornwall Air Ambulance flying and attending patients like John in their greatest moment of need.”

A live DJ will be there on the day to help keep motivation high, and food and drinks will be available from the on-site café.

To book a place visit cornwallairambulancetrust.org/challenges/air-ambulance-challenge/runway-runaround