STAFF from one of Worcestershire's biggest companies have stepped forward to support Acorns Children's Hospice.

Malvern-based science and technology company QinetiQ has donated £5,000 to the charity's Great Malvern Triple Run and a team of employees is now preparing to take part.

The Triple Run takes place on Sunday, July 1, at the Three Counties Showground but the closing date for entries - Saturday, June 16 - is fast approaching.

QinetiQ employee Paul Butler is running the half-marathon for the second time. He wants to raise funds for Acorns because his eight-year-old nephew Josh Loader, from Malvern, receives care at the Bath Road hospice.

He said: "The support he and Bev (his mother) receive free of charge from Acorns really helps them cope much better with everyday life."

Vanessa Staite, who works for Amey, QinetiQ's facilities management company, will accompany her son Matthew Thomas, who has restricted mobility and learning difficulties, around the Chicken Run, a course that has been specifically designed for people with special needs.

To find out more call 01386 554848.