Hospital staff are lacing up their running trainers for charity.

East Cheshire NHS Trust staff will take to the streets of Manchester this weekend as they take on the AJ Bell Great Manchester Run.

They do so in aid of the trust's charity, which goes above and beyond standard Government funding to make a visible difference to local NHS services, including those at Macclesfield District General Hospital and Congleton War Memorial Hospital.

Deputy chief people officer Jake Mairs, who will be taking part in the run, said: "East Cheshire NHS Charity supports us to do more for our patients, colleagues and community.

"As my local hospital, I'm competing in the Great Manchester Run this year as my way of saying thank you for the fantastic care that my family and friends have received.

"I'm not sure how prepared I am for the 10K just yet but as it is for such a great cause, I'll find my way over that finishing line one way or another!"

The Great Manchester Run takes place this Sunday (May 18).

Starting and finishing in the city centre, the route stretches right across Manchester, passing by both Old Trafford and the Etihad.

Both clinical and corporate staff from East Cheshire NHS Trust will be getting involved.

Lily Preston, fundraising manager, said: "It's so lovely to see staff taking part and supporting the charity. Good luck to all our runners.

"Anybody can get involved with fundraising for East Cheshire NHS Charity, as an individual, group or workplace, or you could nominate us as your charity of the year partner. Simply get in touch with the fundraising team to find out more".

For more information contact the fundraising team on [email protected] or visit https://eastcheshirenhscharity.org/