PLYMOUTH'S Lord Mayor has swapped his chains of office for jogging bottoms and trainers to get in shape for a giant charity fun-run.

Councillor Peter Brookshaw will be joining thousands of runners on the Hoe for this year's Sport Relief Plymouth Mile next month.

Last year, 3,300 entrants took on the picturesque course, raising an incredible £800,000 for the charity.

Organisers are hoping city people will top that figure when the race returns on Sunday, March 25.

Cllr Brookshaw said: "I am extremely proud that Plymouth has been chosen as one of the 17 cities across the UK to host a flagship Mile for Sport Relief.

"The Plymouth Mile is an opportunity for everyone, regardless of their age or ability, to come together as a community and have some fun, whilst also helping those who are less fortunate.

"Every penny raised will help people living extremely tough lives right here in our city, across the UK and in the world's poorest countries."

Last year, Olympians Tom Daley, Heather Fell and Sharron Davies were among the famous faces to grace the race, which also attracted hundreds of spectators.

The course takes joggers from the Hoe, past the Royal Citadel and to a finish line with stunning views across the Sound.

Entrants can opt for either a one-mile, three-mile or six-mile course, all lined with a range of entertainment.

Over £1million has been spent on South West projects alone since last year's Plymouth Mile.

Sport Relief's annual Community Cash fund is offering a £50,000 fund to grassroots city projects which apply for a slice by March 9.

To apply, charities or community groups should contact co-ordinators the Devon Community Foundation.

Please visit www.devoncf.com/apply-for-a-grant/sport-relief-community-cash to be in with a chance.

Alternatively, for more information call Laura Hewitt on 01884 235887 or email grants@devoncf.com.

To sign up for the Sport Relief Plymouth Mile, simply log on to www.sportrelief.com.