A SOUTHAMPTON charity has announced they are continuing their partnership with an upcoming marathon.

Holding the role of Lead Local Charity for this year's ABP Southampton Marathon, Southampton Hospital Charity are set to mark their third year running of partnership with the popular race.

More than 200 runners pledged their support for the charity across the full marathon, half marathon, 10k and mile fun run in last year's event, raising £50,000.

The event hopes to attract over 10,000 runners, with routes remaining the same as last year.

Southampton Hospital Charity aims to enhance the world class care and treatment of patients at University Hospital Southampton (UHS) and Princess Anne Hospital by raising funds and providing financial support to areas of the hospital service that lie beyond the scope of NHS funding.

Kelly Metcalfe, from Southampton Hospital Charity, said: “Sponsoring the ABP Southampton Marathon is the highlight of our events calendar.

"The race is a great opportunity for us to engage our supporters on home turf and is proving ever popular, with growing numbers of our supporters taking on the challenge. We are excited about our partnership and about enabling our supporters to challenge themselves and make a real difference to their local hospital."

The charity has had its members play a part in the race since 2015.

Kate Warne, Community Liaison Officer of ABP Southampton Marathon organisers ReesLeisure, said: “Southampton Hospital Charity are fantastic to work with and have wholeheartedly joined in with all aspects of the event. We have enjoyed being able to support the charity and are delighted to be able to continue to help highlight the numerous projects that Southampton Hospital Charity raise funds for.

"January is a great time to set yourself a personal challenge so if you were thinking of entering one of the races this year – why not choose to support your local hospital along the way.”

Runners will get ready, set, go in the ABP Southampton Marathon 2020 on Sunday April 26.