CELEBRITY Christine Hamilton is urging people to come and cheer on the runners in this weekend’s Town and Gown race.

It is the third year Mrs Hamilton will start the race – which takes place on Sunday – and she is now an ambassador for the charity behind the 10km event.

The Muscular Dystrophy Campaign has benefitted by £20,000 from Mrs Hamilton’s fundraising efforts for the charity.

Mrs Hamilton will count down the runners alongside fellow race starters, brothers Harry, five, and seven-year-old Jack Barnley.

Wife of former MP Neil Hamilton and star of TV shows such as I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!, Mrs Hamilton said: “I am thrilled to be back in Oxford this year to help Harry and Jack start the race.

“Not only is the Oxford Town and Gown 10k always great fun for spectators and participants alike, but it also raises funds for a very important cause.

“The Muscular Dystrophy Campaign is dedicated not only to helping those with muscle-wasting conditions, but also to funding world-class research. Together we will find treatments.

“Do come along, cheer on the runners and enjoy a heart-warming day in this glorious city.”

There are more than 3,600 people signed up for the 10km event, with organisers hoping that will increase to 4,000 on the day. An estimated 150 children under 15 will take part in the 3km junior route.

The charity is hoping it will raise a record-breaking £150,000.

Race organiser Toya Champ said: “In its 33-year history, the Oxford Town and Gown has raised close to £1.5m towards groundbreaking research to develop treatments for muscle-wasting conditions and vital support for thousands of families living with their effects.

“We continue to be shown incredible support by the university, its students, local people and local businesses – those who run, those who volunteer and those who line the streets to cheer.”

Volunteers are still needed to help during the race. Just report to the information tent on arrival.

The Virgin Active Oxfordshire Health and Racquet Club team will get invovled with the race for the first time by leading a warm-up at the race village at University Parks.

Road closures will be in place from 8am on Sunday and will remain in operation until noon.

s For full details of road closures, visit www.townandgown10k.com /road-closures1