Physiotherapist Graham McAnuff has been sharing tips on the best way to train for the OX5 Run.

The 40-year-old is making his OX5 debut in this year’s event, which is a fundraiser for Oxford Children’s Hospital.

Mr McAnuff will use the five-mile run as a training race for Oregon’s epic Hood to Coast relay run, in the United States of America, in August.

He warned other OX5 Run competitors to heed three pieces of advice: wear the right shoes; don’t go too far, too fast, too soon; and seek advice for any injuries as soon as possible.

Mr McAnuff, who manages the Run Oxford shop in Little Clarendon Street, said: “This is the first time I have taken part in the OX5 Run, which is obviously for a fantastic cause.

“Last year, I ran about 15 miles in the Oregon run, which, at 197 miles long, is the longest relay race in the world.

“This is a very busy time of year for me, with lots of people getting ready for half-marathons and fun runs.

“The key thing for people training for a run is not to do too many miles too soon.

“And if you get the right training shoes, with sufficient cushioning, you can minimise injuries to your lower leg.”

Mr McAnuff has been training for the event at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, with Rob Allen, of recruitment agency Allen Associates, one of the two main sponsors for the race on Sunday, April 19.

Mr Allen said: “Last year, I was maintaining a really good standard of fitness by cycling into work and back every day.

“It was a 23-mile round trip and a great way of keeping fit without having to go to the gym.

“Sadly, school run duties now prevent me from cycling to work. I am hoping my daughter passes her driving test in April.”

Mr Allen said he had been training about five times a week, including road running, using a treadmill, cycling and playing five-a-side football.

He said: “Graham is helping me with a sports injury. Recently I have had a calf strain, but my current concern is an Achilles strain.

“This is just more evidence that age is catching up with me. However, nothing will stop me from completing the run.”

Sarah Vaccari, a spokesman for the children’s hospital, said: “I hope these training tips from Graham will help motivate plenty of people to take part in the run.

“The more training that runners complete, the easier they will find the going on the day.”

Entry for the OX5 Run is £10 per person, with each runner asked to raise at least £100 in sponsorship.

If you would like to enter, please fill in and return the registration form printed on this page or call Penny Hambridge on 01865 743445.

The form can also be downloaded from our website at oxfordmail.co.uk/ox5run affrench@oxfordmail.co.uk