People training to run the Bristol 10k in May are being urged to raise money at the same time for the city's St Peter's Hospice.

Up to 10,000 runners are expected to take part in the race, which takes place on Sunday, May 10.

Many will be raising money for charity and St Peter's Hospice is the official local charity for next year's event.

Managers hope their involvement with the race will contribute to the £5.3 million needed to run the charity's services every year.

Volunteers are also needed to make up the 150 race marshals to man the route on the day of the event.

St Peter's Hospice provides specialised palliative care to more than 1,750 patients and support to 5,000 family members and children.

Alongside the range of free patient services offered at its two hospices at Brentry and Knowle, the charity delivers care and support in local homes around the city.

Anna Cairns, community fundraiser for St Peter's Hospice, said: "We are absolutely thrilled to have been chosen as the local charity to benefit from the Bristol 10k next year.

"We hope the people of Bristol will sign up and feel good in more ways than one this year by running to support us.

"This is a great race for people who are thinking about taking up running and want to raise money at the same time but don't think they can quite manage a half marathon.

"If you don't fancy running but still want to help your local hospice, we are also looking for 150 marshals to help man the route.

"The money raised through the Bristol 10k will allow us to continue our vital work in the community."

Rebecca O'Donnell, hospice team leader, said: "This year our Hospice at Home service has expanded to include a new full-time team leader, one nurse and two assistants working 100 hours a month each. This has enabled the service to offer different types of care.

"We still care for patients and their carers in the last week of life, but we are now also able to offer more flexible periods of care, which might include night shifts only, a day shift or 24-hour care for a day or two.

"We have occasionally been able to look after several patients at once, which has been difficult in the past.

"The positive responses we get from patients, carers and other professionals reinforces how important the end of life care we provide is to them. It is well advertised that many people want to die at home.

"For some patients this would not have happened had the Hospice at Home service not been involved. Carers also have our support, which is very important as they go through the grieving process.

"Anyone thinking of signing up to run the 10k for St Peter's Hospice should do so as without funds we cannot continue or develop this valuable service to the people of Bristol."

The first city council-organised 10km race in 2008 proved hugely popular, with more than 5,000 runners taking part. The 2009 is expected to attract up to 10,000 runners. Race registration will be open until March.

To run for St Peter's Hospice in the Bristol 10k call Anna Cairns on 915 9300 or email bristol10k@stpetershospice.org.