A CHARITY obstacle course race in Hampshire has had to expand to meet demand.

More than 650 people have signed themselves up to take on Naomi House & Jacksplace Gauntlet Games.

The new charity event which takes place on May 13 is a new race that will take place at the Matterley Bowl Estate and staff at the hospice have been forced to open additional waves to meet demand.

Contestants will get a chance to race in a series of gladiator zones which include inflatables, a giant slip 'n' slide, and even monkey bars which stoop over pools of water

Keith Wilson, Marketing Manager at Naomi House & Jacksplace, said: “Gauntlet Games looks set to be one of our biggest ever fundraising events and there’s no more enjoyable way to support local life-limited and life-threatened children and young people. We are delighted with the public’s response and would urge anyone considering taking part to secure their place soon. Every penny raised from this brilliant event will make a huge difference to families on good days, difficult days and last days.”

Organisers at Naomi House hope the event will raise more than £30,000 to fund the charity's vital nursing and care services for seriously ill youngsters.

The Gauntlet Games starts from 10am in the atmospheric Matterley Bowl in Winchester. Friends and family are welcome to come along to support runners and explore the event village where there will be music, food and fun for all the family.

Entry to Gauntlet Games costs just £40 per person and can be secured at www.naomihouse.org.uk.