Future marathon runners can now apply for a place in the world's largest road race, the London Marathon, which takes place on April 22.

Applicants have between now and October to enter the ballot. So if you already plan to apply for a ballot place then why not consider running and raising money for Harris HospisCare?

Ballot applications are made through the official entry form which is found in Marathon News magazine. This is a free magazine which is distributed to local sports centres across the UK.

By joining the Harris HospisCare 2007 Flora London Marathon team, runners will be given a fantastic support package including regular team meetings, weekly training plans along with plenty of fundraising advice and support.

The aim is to help all the runners be as well prepared as possible on race day and to have an enjoyable race.

This year 11 marathon runners raised £23,566.55.

Former boxing champion Michael Alldis, from Crawley, who finished in 3 hours 12 minutes, summed up his experience by saying: "What a brilliant day. It was one of the best experiences of my life.

"You find out a lot about yourself along the way; almost like a quest for your own holy grail - but you find it when they put that medal around your neck at the finish line.

"Boxing had hardened my emotions over the years but running towards the finish line brought tears to my eyes."