DOCTORS will swap their stethoscopes for running shoes in this year’s OX5 Run.

A team of medics from Abingdon firm Doctors.net.uk have signed up for the five-mile run, which raises money for the Oxford Children’s Hospital, in Headington.

Dr Tim Ringrose, the medical director, said: “The Doctors.net.uk team is already gearing up for the run, because we’re keen to support the Children's Hospital and enjoyed the run last year.

“We've set up our website for donations and expect to have at least five runners.”

Organisers hope more than 1,000 runners will take part in the event on Sunday, April 18, in the grounds of Blenheim Palace, Woodstock.

Last year, more than 700 runners raised about £57,000, making it the most successful OX5 Run yet.

Witney MP and Conservative Party leader David Cameron started the race and joined runners to complete the course himself.

The medics decided to sign up after hearing an appeal by Oxford recruitment agency Allen Associates, one of the event’s main sponsors.

Managing director Kate Allen said: “It’s brilliant that local businesses are getting involved.

“We want to see lots of contenders put down their names to compete for the Corporate Cup this year."

Money raised by last year’s race went towards new equipment to help transfer sick babies between hospitals.

The hospital now wants to update rooms on Tom’s Ward, which are used for children undergoing bowel or gut surgery.

Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals Charitable Funds spokesman Sarah Vaccari said: “Many of those taking part in the past have first-hand experience of the good work that is done at the hospital.

“We’re incredibly proud of the care and facilities here and it’s wonderful to see so many people showing their support through the run.

“We hope that everyone will think about taking part.”

You can register for the race at oxfordmail.co.uk/ news/ox5run/news