THE launch of the Daily Echo’s Stay Warm campaign comes as Age UK prepares to bring its own nationwide fundraising drive to Southampton.

The Echo-backed Wrap Up and Run 10k event will come to the Common in March, with organisers hoping to get 1,000 people on the start line to raise money for some of the most vulnerable elderly people across the country.

Hampshire’s gardening queen Charlie Dimmock is among the keen runners who have already signed up to take part in the event.

She said: “I’m calling on everyone in the area to get motivated and join me at the start line for the Southampton Wrap Up and Run 10k to help change the lives of older people.

“Whatever your age or ability, it’s a great reason to get out in the fresh air and have some fun.”

Paul Farthing, fundraising director at Age UK, added: “We are really excited to be launching our first 10k in Southampton after the successful launch of our Wrap Up and Run series last year.

“At this time of year Age UK’s winter services provide a vital lifeline to many older people locally in the city so please sign up today to help us prevent needless suffering this winter.”

To sign up to take part in Wrap Up and Run 10k on Sunday March 17, log on to ageuk.org.uk/10k. For any enquiries about the 10k run email 10k@ageuk.org.

uk or call the 10k hotline on 0800 169 8787.

The 10k event costs £16 to enter and is open to anyone who would like to run, jog or walk the route.