We’d like to ask your readers to get their running shoes on and sign up for this year’s Great North Run – the world’s largest half-marathon – and help fight meningitis with every stride.

Meningitis Now is looking for extra runners to join its team, but registration closes at 10am on Monday, July 7.

To tempt people to run with us, we have lowered the registration fee to just £5. For that you get a running vest or T-shirt, an information pack on how to prepare for the run and a sports massage at our post-race reception.

Our events team is also on hand to offer help and advice on how to raise the £300 sponsorship target too.

The 13.1-mile race takes place on Sunday, September 7 and this year we expect to see the millionth runner cross the finish line in South Shields. It could be you.

Tragically, meningitis continues to affect thousands of people in the UK each year and kills more children under five than any other infectious disease.

Help us fight back on all fronts by funding research to eradicate the disease, raising awareness and supporting survivors.

To take part, visit the website atmeningitisnow.org, phone 01453 769023 or email beckyj@meningitisnow.org

Becky Jones, Meningitis Now