THE STARTING pistol has been fired on preparations for a charity run to raise money for a school playground.

After the success of last year’s inaugural Danesfield Dash, staff and pupils at Danesfield School are preparing to make this month’s event even better.

The 10km run takes in the lush scenery surrounding the school, which lies off the Henley Road between Marlow and Medmenham.

All proceeds will go towards new equipment for the school playground, with organisers hopeful the event will be adopted into the Marlow sporting calendar.

PTA member Carolyn Wharton said: “In our inaugural Dash last year, we got great reviews on Runners World with 95 per cent of runners saying they would run it again.

“We have been fortunate enough to have sponsorship and backing from local companies SAS, Huntswood and Runners' Retreat and our aim is for the event to become a local rite of passage for runners

“All money made through the event will be raised for the PTA and will go towards much needed new school playground equipment.”

As well as the longer, multi-terrain 10k race, there will be a shorter 1k route for the young and young at heart.

The race takes place on Sunday, April 27. To enter online or download an entry form, visit www.purplepatchrunning.com/races/danesfield-dash-10k