THE annual Chelmsford Marathon returns for its third time this year, raising money for a worthy cause.

The event, which will see thousands of runners take to the borough’s streets on Sunday (October 23) will raise aid for the J’s Hospice – a charity that cares for those with life limiting illnesses.

While many runners will face the traditional, gruelling 26.2 mile route, a new event has been introduced this year for those with less experience.

Starting from the High Street from 9am, participants will tread the footways through to Springfield Park Road, returning through the city centre, Bell Meadow and Central Park. 

Unlike previous years, a 5km race will also take place on the same day.

While many participants are making their way to Chelmsford from across the UK, others have travelled from far flung places, such as Latvia and Dubai to run in aid of the hospice.

Uldis Klavins, 32, will arrive from the picturesque town of Sigulda in Latvia to be on the start line.

The long distance runner, who has entered marathons for six years, said: “I have run a charity ultramarathon in Latvia and I have to say that it is a different feeling when you are not only doing what you love – running - but at the same time helping other people to feel better.

“This feeling unites the runners, volunteers and supporters somehow and, because of that, I am really excited to take part in the Chelmsford Marathon

“I am visiting a friend in October and wanted to do some running during my visit. I was searching for a marathon near London and found out about the Chelmsford Marathon, so I decided to sign up.”

Married Richie and Rachel Lyons will travel 3,380 mile journey from their home in Dubai to take part in the 5K, in memory son Richie’s Jordan 

Jordan had the life-limiting condition Cystic Fibrosis and died in February aged 24 years.

The J’s Hospice provided nursing care and support to him for nearly three years.

Jordan’s family have already held a collection in his memory, raising around £15,000 for the charity.

Jordan’s mum, Lynne Heaton, will also take part.

She explained: “The staff at The J’s Hospice gave us more than just nursing – the help, support and end of life care was above and beyond. We will all be together at the start line, proudly wearing our J’s Hospice t-shirts.”

The Chelmsford 5K is open to people aged 12 and over.

It only costs £13 (affiliated runners) or £15 (unaffiliated runners) to take part.

It is open to people aged 18 and over and costs £38 (affiliated runners) or £40 (unaffiliated runners).

Organisers at The J’s Hospice hope that people will also raise money through sponsorship.

To find out more and sign up for the 5K or the Chelmsford Marathon, please visit chelmsfordmarathon.org.uk