THE sponsors of one of Hampshire’s biggest running events are encouraging entrants in the team event to support a scholarship set up in memory of a young woman killed in a car crash.

SES Autoparts, sponsors the New Forest Marathon, are urging competitors to run on behalf of The Lisa Wilson Scholarship Fund.

Lisa, from Nomansland, died in a car crash in Australia in 2003 and her grieving parents Clive and Trish decided to set up a scholarship to honour her memory. The 23-year-old had made the trip Down Under to Lisa to celebrate gaining her degree in business management at Southampton Institute.

So far the charity has raised more than £260,000 to support bursaries for 90 young adults who have overcome adversity or can demonstrate why they need additional funding to fulfil their educational dreams.

SES Autoparts which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year was founded by Clive Wilson who is now chairman. His sons, Lisa’s brother Scott and Ross are managing director and marketing director respectively, and will both be running in the race.

The team challenge is for groups of four to put their times together at whatever distance they choose.

In addition to the 26-mile distance the event incorporates a half marathon, 10K, 5K, a fun walk and children’s run.

This year’s race, which takes place at New Park, Brockenhurst on Sunday, September 11, will be started by former Saint Francis Benali who will also be running in the 10k. There will also be stalls and live music on the day.

For more information about the marathon visit newforestmarathon.co.uk and for further information about The Lisa Wilson Scholarship fund visit lisathedaddy.com.