VETERANS charity Erskine has been declared the official partner of this year's Paisley 10K.

Last year, almost 3500 people took part in both the Paisley 10k road race and the shorter fun run through the streets of the town.

And organisers Renfrewshire Leisure are expecting a similar big turn out this year on Sunday, August 18.

Read more: Quarriers reveal plans to axe Renfrewshire care homes

Now those taking part are being encouraged to raise money for Erskine, who provide nursing, residential, respite and dementia care for veterans and their spouses.

And previous winners of the Paisley 10k – Derek Hawkins and Gemma Rankin – paid a visit to Erskine to promote the fundraising partnership.

Renfrewshire Leisure’s chairperson, Councillor Lisa-Marie Hughes said: “As well as being a great event for athletes, the Paisley 10k and Fun Run is also great fun for local people to take part in.

Read more: Generous Rangers fans raise more than £800,000 for Erskine

“But there’s other benefits to the local community from the event and that is the huge amount of money raised for charities and good causes each year.

“It’s fitting that such a well-known and respected charity like Erskine that has been in Renfrewshire since 1916 has been chosen as our official charity partner.”

There is more than £2000 in prize money up for grabs in the 10k race and trophies for the both boys and girls fun runners who are aged seven and under, eight to 12 years old and 12 to 15 year olds.

To register, visit here or call 0300 300 1362.

Read all the latest from Renfrewshire and beyond