THERE is still time to take park in Sunday’s Poole Festival of Running and help raise vital funds for the town’s maternity hospital and neo-natal unit.

The event, which raised more than £8,500 last year and attracts a mix of serious and fun-runners, has fast become a favourite on the south coast.

Places are still available in the Born to Run 5K, Minithon, or main 10K race, although no entries for the main race will be taken on the day.

Poole Hospital maternity unit head of midwifery Sandra Chitty said: “I would like to extend my thanks to all those who took part in and raised sponsorship for the 2010 Poole Festival of Running.

“We very much appreciate the effort and time that so many people gave so generously on our behalf.”

Crowds of around 3,000 are expected to cheer runners on as they tackle the various routes.

An event spokesman said: “Over the years the Festival of Running has grown in size and importance and now ranks as one of the most significant road running events in the south.

“The main race, in previous years, has been awarded the BARR gold grade and now attracts a field of over 1,000 runners.”

The money raised last year was put towards the purchase of a cardiotocograph machine for Poole Hospital.

This device is used to monitor the baby’s heartbeat and mother’s contractions during labour.

They can be specifically used for mums who have high risk pregnancies.

For full details on the race event visit poolerunners.co.uk for details.