BORDERERS being urged to sign up to one of the biggest marathons in Scotland, and do their bit for a national charity.

Staff at the Stroke Association are urging keen runners from the Borders to lace-up to represent and fundraise for the charity at the Edinburgh Marathon, which takes places on Sunday, May 28.

The weekend-long event in the capital also features a half marathon, team relay, 10k and 5k runs.

The charity has guaranteed places for the Edinburgh Marathon 2017 and wants all runners willing to represent the charity to aim to raise a minimum of £450 in sponsorship. 

All runners will receive a Stroke Association running vest, a 16 week training plan and lots of support from the team at the charity.

Kirsty Scott, Community and Events Fundraising Manager at the Stroke Association in Scotland said: "There are about 14,000 strokes in Scotland every year and it causes a greater range of disabilities than any other condition. The Stroke Association works towards preventing strokes and helping those who have had a stroke get the support they need.

“By training and taking part in the runs, you’ll be helping to reduce your own risk of stroke while raising awareness and money to support those already affected by the condition.”

A stroke is a brain attack which happens when the blood supply to the brain is cut off, caused by a clot or bleeding in the brain.

There are around 121,000 people in Scotland living with the effects of stroke and it causes a greater range of disabilities than any other condition.

The Stroke Association works directly with stroke survivors, their families and carers, with health and social care professionals plus scientists and researchers. 

They campaign to improve stroke care and support people to make the best recovery they can, plus they also fund research to develop new treatments and ways of preventing stroke. 

General entries are now closed for the full marathon and the only way to secure a place is through a charity entry.

To secure a charity place and represent the Stroke Association, register at www.stroke.org.uk/edinburghmarathon.

For more information, email supportercare@stroke.org.uk or call 0300 330 0740.