AHEAD of this Sunday’s Pontypool 10k Home Run for St David’s Hospice, messages of support for those taking part have come flooding in.

The event gets underway in Pontypool Park at 10am on Sunday.

Torfaen MP Nick Thomas-Symonds wished runners luck, having previously run the course himself

“Having run the 10km Pontypool Home Run in the past myself, I know what an enjoyable event it is, with participants and organisers being so friendly and supportive to all who enter,” he said.

“It is very much a run, not a race, and everyone has their own level.

“The route, out of Pontypool Park, to Mamhilad, then back along the canal, is a varied and interesting one.

“St. David’s Hospice is such a worthy cause and I wish all runners well for this great local event.”

Cllr Anthony Hunt, leader of Torfaen council, said: “The Pontypool 10k Home Run is growing in popularity each year and is always well-supported by the local community who turn out to cheer on the runners.

“I would like to wish all runners the very best of luck and thank them for raising funds that will support St David’s Hospice Care in their endeavours to provide specialist care to individuals and their families.”

Cllr Gaynor James, Pontypool ward councillor and leader of Pontypool Community Council, said: “I think it’s a fantastic cause and would like to thank and wish all the runners good luck.

“Also take care if bad weather comes in.”

And Cllr Rosemary Matthews, chairwoman of Pontypool Community Council, said: “Good luck to those taking part in the Pontypool 10k run for St Davids Hospice.

“It’s common sense that an active lifestyle begets a healthy body. Seeing runs like this encourages others to take up sport be it walking, running or jogging and for such a great cause.”

Torfaen Assembly Member Lynne Neagle said: “I would like to wish all the runners in the annual Pontypool 10km Home Run the very best of luck.

“I have seen the event grow over the years to become a hugely popular fixture in the Pontypool calendar.

“I would like to thank everyone who takes part because it raises thousands of pounds for St David’s Hospice.

“Good luck to everyone taking part and thanks, too, to the organisers and the volunteers who will give up their time to make sure the event is safe for all runners and spectators.

“I am sure it will be a brilliant event.”