A record number of runners from a local charity will participate in this year’s Oxford Half Marathon.

The Yellow Submarine, which supports people with learning disabilities and autism, is thrilled to announce the achievement as 80 runners will line up for the event this Sunday. 

Oxford Mail: There will be a diverse group of participants.There will be a diverse group of participants. (Image: Yellow Submarine)

This achievement coincides with the 10th anniversary of the organisation’s ‘Life Changing Cafes’.

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Community fundraiser for Yellow Submarine, Ella O’Brien, said: “We are overwhelmed by the incredible support we've received from our runners, supporters, and the wider community.

“This record-breaking turnout at the Oxford Half Marathon is a testament to the power of inclusivity and a shared commitment to supporting those with learning disabilities and autism.”

Oxford Mail: The charity helps people with learning disabilities and autism.The charity helps people with learning disabilities and autism. (Image: Yellow Submarine)

Yellow Submarine participants will be visible in bright yellow running vests this Sunday.

Ms O’Brien added: “Give them a big cheer, they deserve it.”

The charity’s ‘Life Changing Cafes’ have supported more than 50 trainees with learning disabilities and autism in their 10 years of existence with an 18-month traineeship.

This prepares participants for employment and helps future employees understand how to support staff with additional needs.

Oxford Mail: The cafe is said to have a 'warm and welcoming' atmosphere.The cafe is said to have a 'warm and welcoming' atmosphere. (Image: Yellow Submarine)

All interested individuals are invited to discover more about the cafés and see the impact of the work first hand by visiting the Oxford Café in Park End Street, or the Witney Café at the Windrush Leisure Centre.

Projects start working with young people in community settings from age 11 onwards to build social skills, confidence, independence and ultimately employability.

Families and carers with respite are supported at the same time.

Oxford Mail: The Oxford Half Marathon is always a highly anticipated event.The Oxford Half Marathon is always a highly anticipated event. (Image: Yellow Submarine)

The cafe is said to have a 'warm, welcoming atmosphere' and its coffee is rated number one on TripAdvisor.

Funds raised from the Oxford Half will go towards the traineeship alongside other projects to ‘increase independence, confidence and reduce isolation’.

A volunteer at Yellow Submarine, Andrew Boag, added: “I am running because the charity’s contribution to the quality of its members’ lives never ceases to amaze me.”

Oxford Mail: More information about Yellow Submarine can be found online.More information about Yellow Submarine can be found online. (Image: Yellow Submarine)

The Oxford Half Marathon is a ‘flat and fast’ 13.1-mile route through Oxford which will take place on Sunday this week.

The route begins in the city centre at Oxford’s Broad Street and passes through Old Marston River, the River Cherwell, and Oxford University’s Lady Margaret Hall before finishing on Parks Road.

Ms O’Brien added: “We are inspired by the dedication of our participants and the impact their efforts will have on helping our members live their lives to the full."

More information about Yellow Submarine and its fundraising efforts can be found on the Yellow Submarine website online.