All events for Marie Curie fund its cancer care nurses who give terminally ill people the choice of dying in their homes with their families.

But the one at Kelmarsh Hall on Sunday is the biggest participatory event the charity holds anywhere in the country, and this year's could yet get even bigger.

The charity is reminding runners that registrations are open until Wednesday to add their name to the 1,500 people already signed up.

And Marea Roberts, area fund-raising manager, said they are being encouraged to run in memory of someone they wish to remember.

She said: "We are always pleased when runners dedicate their run and their fund-raising to those they have loved and lost, as well as raising much needed funds to make a real difference to other local people with terminal illness.

"Everyone will love the amazing atmosphere of so many runners all wearing the famous daffodil badges coming together for a great cause. I urge local runners to come forward and be part of this unforgettable event."

Last year more than £80,000 was raised by the event.

Freemason Tim Vernon, who is this year's worshipful master of the England Centre lodge in Northampton, is taking part in his debut charity run and has recruited several other freemasons to join him in the 10k event.

He said "Two of our members died from cancer this year so the cause is something very pertinent to all of us.

"But I'm looking forward to the run itself because I'm told you get lots of encouragement which must be better than running round Abington Park by yourself.

"I would say to anyone on the verge of applying to just go for it.

"If the worst comes to the worst you can walk the whole thing in a couple of hours and it isn't the time that matters, it's the money we raise."

For more details or to register to run the Great Daffodil Run contact Margot Clements on Northampton 442313 or visit www.mariecurie. org.uk/events.