A government minister has this week recorded a special message for the Norfolk students who are preparing to take part in The Climate Run.

In his message Minister of State for Energy and Climate Change Greg Barker wishes the youngsters good luck and encourages them to consider career opportunities in the energy industry.

The Climate Run, which is being held at the Holkham Estate in north Norfolk, is now less than two weeks away and is the first event of its kind in the UK, with hundreds of Norfolk's secondary school and college students set to take part in a fun run, speak to potential employers at an energy industry-themed careers fair and discuss issues around climate change.

In his message, Mr Barker said: 'I'd like to wish all of the students in Norfolk who are taking part in the Climate Run the very best of luck.

'Congratulations on doing something that's going to raise the profile of a really important cause. If you have any puff left when you've finished that run, do go and have a look at the careers fair where you can talk to people in industry about the really exciting range of opportunities available to young people to engage in the solutions to climate change.

'We're going to have to do so much to transform our economy to change the way we live our lives, but it can be for the better. It will all rely on people like you getting involved, becoming committed and wanting to do something about it. Have a good day and good luck!'

The Climate Run, which is being backed by the EDP, takes place on April 7.

Money raised at the event will go to eco projects at the schools and colleges participating and improving the facilities at three primary schools in Kenya, a country which has been badly affected by climate change.

The Climate Run was first staged last year in Bremerhaven, Germany, a key centre for renewable energy.

It will be held again there, simultaneously with the Norfolk event, which has been organised by The Mason Trust, a not-for-profit organisation aimed at helping 12 to 25-year-olds in Norfolk and Suffolk reach their potential.

For more information and to register to take part, visit www.theclimaterun.org.uk

Keep an eye on the EDP for updates on The Climate Run.