VOLUNTEERS REQUIRED FOR PERKINS GREAT EASTERN RUN

The organisers of the Perkins Great Eastern Run 2009 are looking for volunteers to help make the event a success.

The Perkins Great Eastern Run will take place on Sunday 11 October 2009 and looks set to be bigger and better than ever. The half-marathon and fun run were revived by Peterborough City Council in 2006 after a 10-year break and have gone from strength to strength ever since.

To date, 1,814 people have signed up for this year's 13.1 mile half marathon and 414 have signed up for the 4km fun run. More than 5,000 entries are expected by race day.

Volunteers are needed to act as marshals to oversee the course on race day. People are also needed to help prepare in the days leading up to the event. Duties on race day will include road supervision, baggage handling and operating water stations. All volunteers must be available between 9.30am and about 3pm on race day, although finish times will vary depending on where people are stationed on the course.

Two types of volunteers are sought:

• Key volunteers who will be responsible for co-ordinating a group of volunteers (these people will need to meet at 8.30am for a briefing)

• Volunteers who will carry out duties including supervision, baggage handling and operating water stations under the guidance of key volunteers

Volunteers can either enrol as an individual or sign up as a small group who will work together throughout the race.

Councillor Matthew Lee, cabinet member for environment capital and culture, said: "This is a chance for people to play their part in making the race a success, whilst getting involved in one of the city's biggest annual events. Volunteers play a key role in the Perkins Great Eastern Run and I would encourage everyone to spare some time and get involved."

For more information about volunteering for the event, call Nicky McCready on (01733) 863866 or email nicola.mccready@peterborough.gov.uk