PREPARATIONS for the 2007 Acorns Great Malvern Triple Run are picking up speed.

The huge fund-raiser, which brings together people of all ages and abilities, takes place at the Three Counties Showground, Malvern, on Sunday, July 1.

There are three races on the day: the Great Malvern Run, the Malvern Spring Run and the Chicken Run.

Named after the Aardman Animations film of the same name, the Chicken Run is designed to be first and foremost fun, but also to break down the barriers between able and disabled children.

The wheelchair-friendly course comes complete with ramps and chicanes and participants have to dodge bales of hay.

This year the Jordan family, of St Peter's, Worcester, will take part, and they can't wait.

Eleven-year-old Alex, who has Duchenne muscular dystrophy, uses the Bath Road hospice and will be taking part in the Chicken Run with his dad Martin.

Mr Jordan said: "It raises the profile of Acorns but it's not just about that. It's fun, it's like a big party."

This year Aardman is backing the event, donating banners and visual displays.

Head of feature operations Mary Lowance said: "We are so pleased that our film has an opportunity to come to life again through this race, and we are delighted to be involved in an event that brings all children together through a sporting challenge.

"We wish everyone the very best of luck."

Alex's mum Cal is running the 5km Malvern Spring Run with her daughter, nine-year-old Carenza.

"Carenza, who receives sibling support from Acorns, really wanted to do something for her brother," she said, "and this will help raise funds for a wonderful charity.

"This event really brings out the best in people."

Also taking part in the Malvern Spring Run, which takes runners through woodland and grassy areas, is Sam Packwood and his 10-year-old daughter Chloe, also of St Peter's, Worcester. Mrs Packwood, a volunteer at the Bath Road hospice, said: "It's a charity which is close to my heart.

"We competed in the Malvern Spring Run last year; it was Chloe's first attempt at 5km and she didn't stop running once. We're really looking forward to taking part again."

On Tuesday, April 3, a group of competitors, including the Jordans and the Packwoods, gathered at Nunnery Wood Sports Centre running track and met members of the Worcester Athletic Club.

The run is being held in association with the club and many members are taking part. Half-marathon runner Chris Crosswell and Mark Hill were on hand to offer expert advice, and picking up some of those tips was Lara Holland, of Malvern.

The 23-year-old is taking part in the Chicken Run for the second year and she is raising funds for the Cerebral Connections, a team from the neurological department at Birmingham's Children's Hospital. Those who enter either the Chicken Run or the Great Malvern Run can raise funds for any charity of their choice. Those taking part in the Malvern Spring Run will raise money for Acorns.

The Great Malvern Run is Worcestershire's only official half marathon. Literally leading the way will be Bernie Yates, of Warndon Villages, Worcester.

Despite coming last in last year's event, the 59-year-old's spirits have not dampened and he has managed to secure the number one position.

He said: "It took me three hours and 19 minutes and I'm going to try to beat that."

Applications for the triple run are already close to 200, and many more have pledged to take part, which is why the organisers are urging people to enter as soon as possible.

On the day, staff from Malvern Splash will be giving out 3,000 bananas and BBC Hereford and Worcester will be manning a live stage event with competitor interviews, prize giveaways and music.

To find out more or enter any of the races call 01386 554848, e-mail triplerun@ acorns.org.uk or visit www.malvernrun.org.uk.

Closing date for entries is Wednesday, June 13.

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