A FORMER European champion runner is calling on Redditch residents to make it their new year’s resolution to sign up for the Stroke Association Resolution Run.

The charity is hosting one of its runs at Arrow Valley Country Park on Sunday, February 25, and five-time Olympian Jo Pavey is calling on residents to lace up for the challenge.

Jo, who also won gold in 10,000m at the 2014 European Championships, said: “You don’t have to be a medal-winning athlete to take on a Resolution Run for the Stroke Association.

“These events are ideal for people who are putting on their trainers for their first charity run, through to more experienced runners.

“The added bonus is that the funds you raise will help even more people recover from a devastating stroke.

“The Stroke Association offers support every step of the way to help you reach your New Year goals. So make a resolution that counts this year and sign up today.”

The event is open to all ages and abilities, and participants can run, jog or walk their way to the finish line.

Claire Weaver, community and events fundraiser at the Stroke Association, said: “A Resolution Run is exactly that – a resolution for the New Year that counts.

“It's the ideal event for families and friends in Redditch who want to do something fun together while getting more active in 2018.

“Every five minutes across the UK, someone’s life is turned upside down by stroke. By signing up to a Resolution Run, each runner will help us ensure that we can continue to support stroke survivors and their families as they rebuild their lives.”

Entry is £16 and all runners receive a running t-shirt and medal.

To enter, visit stroke.org.uk/resolution, email resolution@stroke.org.uk or call 0300 330 0740.