Runners who took part in the Oxford Mail's Town and Gown fun run have donated thousands of pounds to the fight against the muscle-wasting disease Muscular Dystrophy.

A record 1,682 people entered the 10km race and more than 60 youngsters took part in the junior race last month.

Just 62 people have so far sent in their sponsor money, but their efforts have already brought the total raised this year for the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign to 3,320. The money will be used to fund vital research into the disease.

Every runner who raises more than 10 for the charity will be presented with a horse brass commemorating this year's run. Special trophies will be handed out to teams and individuals who raise the most cash. Organisers are hoping the runners will collect about 25,000. Organiser Ian Hale said: "The money is gradually coming in but it takes time for some people to collect. Last year we raised 22,000 for the charity and I am hoping we will raise a lot more than that because more people took part in the run. At the moment, the most money raised by one individual runner is 281 and that person is in the running to win the Oxford Mail cup."

Runners should send their donations to: The Town and Gown Fun Run, The Old Rectory, 33 Standlake Road, Ducklington, Witney, Oxfordshire, OX8 7UX, by June 30 if they would like to receive a horse brass.