A TEAM of doctors and nurses are lacing up their running shoes this October for a good cause in the Wee County.

The healthcare professionals from the Mental Health Acute Assessment team at Forth Valley Royal Hospital have decided to run a 10km course this October.

Their efforts are supporting the foodbank at The Gate Charity in Alloa, which has seen a huge surge in demand during the coronavirus crisis – as previously reported in the Advertiser.

Marie Brownhill, centre manager at The Gate, said the charity is "absolutely delighted" that the "wonderful" doctors and nurses have decided to support the good cause.

She added: "Over the last few months, the need for our services has significantly increased as single people and families are struggling to cope due to the effects of Covid-19.

"Any funds raised will be used to support the most vulnerable within Clackmannanshire by purchasing food and essential items to operate our services.

"The Gate Charity is so proud of the team, running 10km is a huge commitment.

"I know I would struggle to run such a distance!

"We are hoping that people will support the professionals in their quest to help others living within the Wee County community."

An initial fundraising target of £500 has been set by the team ahead of the challenge on October 4.

However, they are already set to smash that with £465 pledged by supporters at the time of writing.

The team's fundraising page added: "We are not athletes and some of us run better than others.

"But as a team we will get to the finish line.

"Please support us to reach our target and raise some money for The Gate Foodbank."

Anyone looking to support the fundraiser can visit bit.ly/311CrO1 to donate.