We would like to ask any of your fitness-minded readers to run for Meningitis UK in this year's Bristol Half Marathon, which has become one of the largest and most popular half marathons in the country.

Thousands of people will have secured independent places by now and we would love for participants to become part of our Meningitis Musketeers team on September 6. And, if people still want to sign up, there are still a few sought-after places left.

Meningitis UK has a single focus – to find a vaccine to eradicate all forms of meningitis. Tragically, meningitis and meningococcal septicaemia continue to affect thousands of people in the UK every year and kill more children under five than any other infectious disease.

Our Search 4 a Vaccine Campaign aims to raise £7 million to fund research into eradicating meningococcal group B – the most common form of meningitis in the UK. This accounts for almost 90 per cent of all cases and there is currently no vaccine.

Everyone who runs for Meningitis UK will be part of the Meningitis Musketeers team, with the motto 'All 4 One and One 4 All' – to highlight the devastating fact that meningitis can kill in under four hours and the importance of our Search 4 a Vaccine Campaign.

Full support will be given and everyone who participates will receive a free Search 4 a Vaccine running vest or T-shirt, and a handy information pack including hints and tips on how to prepare.

If you would like to take part in the Bristol Half Marathon and help us achieve our vision, please contact Lauren on 0117 373 7373 for a sponsorship pack.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Lauren Vincent,

Meningitis UK.