World famous sprinter Derek Redmond is getting involved in a special winter challenge to help grant wishes for children with life-threatening illnesses.

The athlete, who is a patron of Bournemouth-based Round Table Children's Wish, will start the Echo-backed Laps for Lapland run in Meyrick Park on November 30th.

The event, which starts at 2.30pm, will see dozens of men and boys dressed in Santa suits running laps around Meyrick Park. Money raised will help the charity send children with life-threatening illnesses and their families to Lapland to meet Father Christmas.

Derek said: 'What better cause can there be than helping to make Christmas wishes come true for poorly children? I urge everyone to show their support by taking part - who knows, the Olympian of the future could have their first brush with athletics dressed as Santa!'

Helen Jeffery, Fundraising Manager at Round Table Children's Wish, said: 'We're delighted to have Derek's support. It should be a lot of fun.

To find out more about Laps for Lapland or to enter as an individual or a team call 01202 514515 or visit www.rtcw.org