Staff at a merchandise firm near Wallingford are warming up to raise cash for Oxford Children’s Hospital.

Eighteen staff at Vogue International Ltd, Berinsfield, are jogging around the industrial estate it is based in to prepare for the OX5 Run at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, on Sunday, March 25.

The firm makes lunchboxes, clocks and rucksacks featuring well-known children’s characters. It is a long-term supporter of the hospital and regularly donates products to young patients.

Grandmother Beverley Andrews, 51, of Ock Drive, Berinsfield, who is an office administrator, said: “Our team is a mix of abilities and our ages range from 18 to 51. One of the latest people to join is William Magill, one of our managing directors.

“My four grandchildren Callum Andrews, six, Lauren Andrews, two, Brooke Andrews, one, and two-month-old Megan Andrews were all born at the John Radcliffe, so it’s nice to give something back.”

Miss Andrews, who has worked at the firm for the past 10 years, said Callum needed treatment at the children’s hospital for a chest infection when he was six months old.

Hospital spokesman Penny Hambridge said: “Vogue International has long been a staunch supporter of the children’s hospital. A number of the staff there have taken part in abseils and other events to raise money for us in the past and we are delighted and grateful to see so many of them have signed up for the OX5 Run event.”

Last year, those taking part in the race raised £60,000 to help pay for equipment the NHS cannot provide. This included a mobile intensive care unit and converting a room for teenage patients to relax.

This year, fundraisers are hoping 1,000 runners will raise £100,000 for the 10th anniversary race.

Oxford United is encouraging at least 100 of its fans to sign up for the race.

affrench@oxfordmail.co.uk For further information on the OX5 Run visit ox5run.co.uk