A COUNCIL chairman will be running and handing out prizes as a popular 10km race returns to South Bucks this weekend.

Councillor Duncan Smith, chairman of South Bucks District Council, will be taking part in the 10km Road Race around Black Park Country Park in Black Park Road, Wexham today (Sunday).

Cllr Smith will then have to undergo a quick costume change to present the prizes to the winners of the event which aims to raise money for South Bucks Hospice.

Cllr Smith said: "I hope to finish in under 50 minutes so I should have time to change, weather permitting, into my formal suit and chain of office. I have raised money for the Hospice in the past by running. It's a great cause and I am delighted to help in this way."

Around 300 runners are set to take part in the event, which raised more than £1,000 for the hospice last year and also includes a 5km offering for the first time.

Fred Ashford, race secretary, said: “This year, we decided to add in the 5km course to support the 10km course. We wanted to encourage local runners who do the weekly 5km run in Black Park to join in the fun as well.

“We are supporting South Bucks Hospice again this year because we know that they are raising money for a new Community Hospice so we wanted to back them.”

Entry fees are £13 for the 10km run and £10 for the 5km run. Affiliated club members receive a £2 discount. Information on how to enter can be found at www.southbucks10k.org.uk