A GRATEFUL couple, who praised the 'amazing' NHS staff after they saved the sight of two of their young children, will put their sports gear on for another year to raise much-needed cash for Oxford's Children's Hospital.

While the Oxford Mail's OX5 event may not be held at Blenheim Palace's grounds this year due to the government-enforced lockdown, this is not going to stop sporty fundraisers doing their bit to raise money for the Oxford Mail OX5 run.

Lynne and Tom Hammond, who live in Woodstock, are taking part in the fun run in support of their two young children Eliza, eight, and Charlie, two.

Both children received life changing surgeries at the Oxford Eye Hospital as they were both born with bilateral cataracts which meant that they had just 10 per cent vision, and it was a race to save their sight.

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Eliza underwent three major eye operations to remove the lens from her eye and have it replaced with a clear plastic lens called an intraocular lens.

When Charlie was born, doctors discovered that the form was more progressive that Eliza's.

Within two months the newborn was undergoing the same operations as his big sister.

After multiple operations, both children started to recover and the family will be 'eternally' grateful for the support and care the hospital gave to both children and the family over the years.

Eliza Hammond whose parents are taking part in the annual OX5 run

Eliza Hammond whose parents are taking part in the annual OX5 run

Last year, Team Eliza and Charlie raised £6,000 and became the top fundraisers for the charity.

Since the family entered the OX5 for the very first time, they have raised more than £15,000.

Joe Baker from Oxford Hospitals Charity commented on the Hammond's annual efforts: "'It is great to have our top fundraising team Team Eliza and Charlie back with us for our virtual run.

"It is always inspiring when we have families who come back year after year to thank the amazing medical teams and help us fund some really important projects across our local children's hospital.

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"Although this year is a little different, the idea remains the same and we are calling on local businesses, community groups and families who have used their local children's hospital to get involved and make 2021 a year to remember."

The Oxford Mail OX5 Run will, once again, take runners on a five-mile trace for the local charity.

Fundraisers can walk, jog or run the event, sponsored by Allen Associates, all in aid of supporting Oxford Children's Hospital.

Charlie Hammond whose parents are taking part in the annual OX5 run

Charlie Hammond whose parents are taking part in the annual OX5 run

They are asked to tackle a five-mile route in their local areas, in line with the government guidelines.

Entry costs £10 and those who sign up are encouraged to raise at least £200.

This event is hugely important for the charity as it raises vital funds to make hospitals more welcoming for thousands of local young patients.

To find out more and sign up visit www.hospitalcharity.co.uk/ox5run.