A YOUNG fundraiser with a special connection to the Oxford Town and Gown race has urged any undecided runners to put on their trainers and get involved.

James Lewis, who suffers from muscular dystrophy, is well known to regular competitors in the popular event for the amazing amount of sponsorship he collects and his determination to complete the course .

The 10km race through the centre of Oxford, which this year takes place a week on Sunday, is run in aid of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign.

Twenty-one-year-old Mr Lewis, who lives in Farmoor, said: “As I have muscular dystrophy myself, it’s one of the few opportunities that I have to be able to raise funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign.

“The money raised is all used for research into a cure for muscular dystrophy, so the more money raised, the sooner there will be a chance of a cure.”

Asked what he would say to anyone looking to enter for the first time, he replied: “Go out and enjoy themselves, but above all, get lots of sponsorship money. If you don’t want to run, then there are also lots of opportunities to help on the day.”

Mr Lewis, who works in the fundraising office of Helen and Douglas House hospice, in East Oxford, added: “Up to 2007, I took part in the race every year in my wheelchair, and I was top junior fundraiser four times, and won the Oxford Mail Cup four times for being the highest fundraiser in the 10km race.

“However, the 2007 race was very hard for me, so last year I didn’t enter the race, but I was the official starter and also did some marshalling.

“This year I won’t be at the race as I will be in America, attending my sister's wedding – but I’ll be back next year.

“The most memorable race was my first 10k race, as everyone was cheering me on and throwing money in my bucket.”

To take part in the 28th Town and Gown Run, fill and return the entry form on this page or see oxfordtownandgown.org.uk Entries must be submitted by Monday.

tairs@oxfordmail.co.uk