ILKLEY'S MP has issued a rallying call to the public to support a major Manorlands fundraiser.

Kris Hopkins is urging constituents to sign-up for the Keighley BigK 10K run and walk, being held on Sunday, March 26.

The event, now in its tenth anniversary year, has attracted nearly 10,000 entrants and raised almost £300,000 since it was launched.

It was the brainchild of Mr Hopkins, who has taken part several times himself.

"The staff at Manorlands do a fantastic job and public participation in their great local events such as the BigK allows Sue Ryder to continue its vital services in the area," he said.

"A remarkable amount of money has been raised for the finest of causes over the last decade and I hope we will be able to add significantly to that total later this month.

"I'm hopeful local residents will again sign-up in large numbers.

"And for those who aren't able to take part, I would ask them to please consider making a small donation to someone who is."

Andrew Wood, Manorlands' Keighley fundraiser and the event lead, recounted the first meeting at the MP's Churchill House office to plan the inaugural 10K.

"From that initial get together – which also involved John Dennis and council representatives – this event has become something that the town is very proud of," said Mr Wood.

"For our tenth anniversary we've added a 5K route so that an even larger proportion of our community can get involved."

The 10K starts at Victoria Park and follows a multi-terrain route around the town.

Keighley's Airedale Shopping Centre, Convenience Hire and Keighley Ford and Kia are the three main sponsors.

Among those taking part is Bradford City FC season ticket holder Dave Belmont, who is forgoing a trip to see his beloved team take on promotion rivals Scunthorpe United.

He will tackle the route wearing his City shirt.

"I have done – mainly walking – the Keighley 10K for the last five years and was determined to enter again – even if it meant missing the City match!" said Mr Belmont.

"It costs £500 to run Manorlands for 90 minutes and I originally aimed to raise enough sponsorship to cover the full 90 minutes of the City match, but I now have pledges totalling almost £1,000. That would be enough for three hours, or two full City matches!"

For more details about the BigK 10K and to sign-up, visit sueryder.org/bigk10k or contact the Manorlands fundraising office on 01535 640430.