Fun runners are being urged to take off down a south Norfolk airfield next month to help raise thousands of pounds for a life-saving charity.

The East Anglian Air Ambulance's annual runway run will return to Tibenham Airfield, near Diss, on Sunday, September 30, which is one of the charity's biggest fundraising events of the year.

Organisers are hoping for a record turnout for the fourth runway run that will be held at the home of the Norfolk Gliding Club.

The annual event comes as the Eastern Daily Press continues to boost the air ambulance's coffers through its LifeSaver appeal aimed at improving its equipment. Readers are being urged to help raise �50,000 to pay for a �20,000 ventilator, two �5,000 blood analysers and a �20,000 ultrasound machine.

Jess Down, Norfolk fundraising manager for the air ambulance, said the runway run was the charity's 'flagship' fun run event.

'Having started in 2009, the event has gone on to double its runners and fundraising achievements. The event is primarily a fundraising fun run for all ages and abilities and we welcome runners, joggers and walkers alike – even dogs on leads are allowed to join in the fun.'

'Over the past four years we have raised in excess of �35,000. This year we are really keen to break the �20,000 mark and exceed 350 runners,' she said.

Runners can take part in either a 5k or 10k run on the airfield's runways, which starts at 2pm, and there will be a prize awarded to the best 999 emergency services outfit.

A memorial service will also be held at the former US Air Force base to mark the anniversary of the 445th Bombardment Group's Kassel Mission in which 39 B-24 aircraft left the Norfolk airfield on September 27, 1944, and only four returned.

People can register online by visiting www.eaaa.org.uk or completing one of the registration forms. Entry costs �10 for adults, �5 for under 17s and over 60s, and under fives can take part for free.

For further information, call 01603 489406 or email runway@eaaa.org.uk.

You can tell the EDP about fundraising events to support the appeal by emailing newsdesk@archant.co.uk

Cheques, made payable to the 'East Anglian Air Ambulance' can be sent to Eastern Daily Press Appeal, East Anglian Air Ambulance, Hangar E, Gambling Close, Norwich Airport, Norwich NR6 6EG.