Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes is lending her support to The Race for AAIR, which takes place in Winchester on Sunday (July 8).

The Race for AAIR, a fundraising event, is organised in association with The AAIR Charity (Asthma, Allergy & Inflammation Research) and the Winchester and District Athletics Club (WADAC). Formerly called the Race for Hope, the 10k road race has always raised funds jointly for asthma research and WADAC. However, for the first time in the race's six-year history, AAIR based at Southampton General Hospital, will benefit directly. The funds they receive will go towards the world-acclaimed University of Southampton School of Medicine, which is at the forefront of the global search to prevent asthma and allergic disease.

The event, which follows a route through the roads of historic Winchester, isn't just for keen runners. It is also open to adults of all ages and abilities while children under the age of 15 are invited to take part in the fun runs, which will start at 11.15am.

AAIR Fundraising director Caroline Pope said: "We are absolutely delighted Dame Kelly Holmes is supporting the Race for AAIR. Her spirit, talent and dedication is an inspiration. It would be fantastic if her endorsement of this race helps encourage people to take part, especially children and those who are thinking of trying a race for the first time but perhaps just need that extra bit of encouragement."

AAIR hope to follow in the success of last year's event (called Race for Hope), which attracted over 1,000 competitors and raised over £5,000 for asthma research.

There will be prizes for all the winners and several runners-up, including a £100 Alton Sports voucher for the first male and female adult across the line plus lots of spot prizes.

The main road race starts to 10am for ages 15 and above. Entry is £8 for non-affiliated entrants and £6 for affiliated entrants. The three Fun Runs cost £2 to enter.

Application forms can be download from the AAIR website www.aaircharity.org