WITNEY MP David Cameron will be joining hundreds of runners at this year’s Oxford Mail OX5 Run to raise money for Oxford’s Children’s Hospital.

The Conservative Party leader, who will start the race and run the five-mile course around Blenheim Palace in Woodstock on Sunday, April 19, was invited by recruitment firm Allen Associates, one of the race sponsors.

The race is expected to raise more than £50,000 for the hospital’s Fund for Children to buy new equipment, including computers for a multi-media room, which will allow patients to email their friends and family.

Kate Allen, managing director of Allen Associates, said: “We were thrilled when Mr Cameron not only accepted the invitation to attend as guest of honour, but decided to join in the fun run too. His presence on the day will be a fantastic boost.”

Caroline Preston, a spokesman for Mr Cameron, said: “David is delighted to be involved and is looking forward to taking part.”

About 500 runners have already signed up for the race, and organisers are hoping Mr Cameron’s appearance will encourage others to take part – boosting the number of runners to about 1,000.

In February, Mr Cameron’s son Ivan, who suffered from cerebral palsy and a rare form of epilepsy, died.

Graham Brogden, head of community fundraising, said: “Mr Cameron’s participation is made all the more poignant following the family’s recent sad loss.

“We are particularly grateful to Mr Cameron for going the extra mile for the children’s hospital at what must be a difficult time for him and his family.”

Last year, the Witney MP braved cold water and mud to take part in the annual Great Brook Run in Chadlington, near Chipping Norton, finishing 25th out of 105.