NHS Norfolk is urging people across the county to take the opportunity to get active and support the Bespak Grand East Anglia Run (GEAR) next month.

NHS Norfolk is proud to be a sponsor of the event, which is being organised by King’s Lynn and West Norfolk Borough Council, and takes place on Sunday, May 2.

The GEAR is 10 kilometres/6.2 miles long. It is a one-lap course around the centre of King’s Lynn, via paths and roads. Anyone wishing to take part must be 15 years or older.

Harry Collins, Race Director, confirmed that more than 1,100 people have entered already and hundreds more are expected to sign up before the day.

He said: “It’s a very popular race. You have to be there to appreciate how good the atmosphere is in the town on the day. Everybody comes to cheer everybody on.”

Lucy Macleod, Consultant in Public Health for NHS Norfolk, said: “We are proud to sponsor the Grand East Anglia Run. The event is an inspiration for people to take more exercise – and we would encourage anyone who has already signed up for the run to join a free training session before the race.

“Lack of exercise can lead to an increased risk of obesity, and associated conditions including diabetes and heart disease. Currently a third of people in Norfolk are overweight or obese, and we welcome all initiatives that help reverse this trend.

“The GEAR is a good opportunity for people to exercise outside, and make new friends through a common interest.

“If you are not able to take part this time, why not go along and support the runners? You may be inspired to join in next year!”

The GEAR begins in Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn. The course takes runners around the town and through The Walks, finishing back in the Tuesday Market Place.

Competitors can enter as individuals, as part of a team or as an affiliated athletics club member, and there is still time to put yourself forward.

Paul Higham, a Senior Information Analyst at NHS Norfolk, will compete in the GEAR, and is hoping for a speedy time and a top 10 finish.

Paul has been running for the past 10 years, clocks up about 50-60 miles a week, and is a member of the Norwich Road Runners.

He has won three of his last four races – a Valentine’s 10k, Reedham 10 miler, and Frettenham 10k. He also completed the Singapore Marathon and Prague Half Marathon last year. Most recently, on Good Friday, he came second in the Bungay 10k.

The cost of entry for the GEAR is £18 for unaffiliated runners and £16 for athletics club members. Runners must be aged 15 or over on race day.

A social run with race director Harry Collins in preparation for the race has been organised for Sunday 18th April at 9.45am for a 10am start.

Then, Wednesday 21st April, there’s a free training session from 7pm to 8.30pm, followed by a question and answer session and advice on preparation for race day.

For more information on these events, or to enter the GEAR online, visit its website at www.grandeastangliarun.co.uk

To find out more about other activities and initiatives across NHS Norfolk’s area which can support you to lead an active, healthy lifestyle, call the NHS Norfolk Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) on 0800 587 4132.