THE race is on to beat last year's number of entrants for next Sunday's OX5 Run and the message is clear: It's not too late to enter.

More than 600 people have so far signed up for the five-mile event through the grounds of Blenheim Palace on Sunday, March 25.

But if you still fancy taking part you have until Thursday to download an online form and send it off.

It is still possible to enter on the day, but those who sign up in advance will only have to pay £10 as opposed to £12 on the day.

As well as raising thousands of pounds for charity those taking part will also get the chance to meet I'm a Celebrity... star and former Neighbours hearththrob Jason Donovan, who has agreed to start the event.

Last year, more than 1,000 people took part in the event raising more than £55,000 for the Children's Hospital Oxford appeal.

Graham Brogden, head of community fundraising - who is running himself - said: "Registrations need to be with us by Thursday at the latest to give us time to process them and then they will be able to pick up their numbers on the day.

"There is always room for more people to enter and we would love to see a record number of people on the start line this time.

"I would like to say a big thank you to everyone from the Oxford Mail and The Oxford Times for the help they have given in organising the event."

As well as a warm-up fitness session and warm-down massages for those taking part, friends and family who turn up to support the event will be entitled to a reduced entry rate for Blenheim Palace on the day.

Mr Brogden added: "It should be an absolutely fantastic day for everyone involved and it will make such a difference to the children at the hospital which is, after all, what it is all about."

For the first time, microchips in runners' numbers will record the exact time they finish.

To enter, go to our home page and follow the link on the right hand side.