DOZENS of determined runners are making final preparations before taking part in the annual Lee Valley 10k run.

The event will take place next Sunday at the River Lee Country Park in Waltham Abbey, with a shorter 3k Fun Run also open less experienced athletes.

Special guest, Danny Crates, the Paralympic 800-metre gold-medallist at the Athens Olympics, will be on hand at the start line to encourage runners before they set off.

The three fastest male and female runners will all receive a prize.

All participants will receive a commemorative T-shirt, with children each getting a special medal.

The event will be rounded off with entertainment provided by the Harlow Steel Band.

The 10k run is due to begin at 10am and the Fun Run will follow at 11am.

A team of physiotherapists will offer free massages for all the runners before and after the races.

To take part in the 10k run, entrants must be aged 16 years or older, and entry is £10 in advance or £15 on the day.

The Fun Run is open to all ages, but entrants running on their own must be 11 or older. Entry for the Fun Run is £5, but children under five can take part for free.

An online application form is available at: leevalleypark.org.uk