The cash-strapped Acorns Children's Hospice is staging a new, major running event to help raise much-needed funds.

It will take place in the Three Counties Showground in May and will include the county's first official half-marathon.

Acorns community fundraiser Fran Winterbourn said it was widely reported that four beds had been cut back at the hospice due to lack of cash.

"Everyone who signs up to this event, or sponsors someone taking part, will be playing a key role in helping Acorns to resume a full level of service," she said.

The event is called The Acorns Triple Run and will be staged in three parts.

The Malvern Half Marathon of 13.1 miles is for the committed runner. The Malvern Spring - a 5km run/walk in a wooded area - is for families, fun runners and dog walkers and The Chicken Run is a 1.1km course designed for children with special needs and for wheelchairs.

The idea for the event came from Anna Hyde, of Acorns, whose son Jakob died at the age of eight from a brain tumour.

The run, she said, was a way of giving something back to Acorns for the wonderful care and support they showed - not only to Jakob but to all the family.

The event is being organised by a committee of volunteers, headed by Chris Price.

He urged people to take part, not only to improve their own health and well-being but by making a big difference to the life of the children and families that Acorns supports.

There will be an entry fee for the Acorns Triple Run, which will be held for the first time on Sunday, May 21, with proceeds going to the charity. Runners are also encouraged to raise sponsorship to help Acorns, or their preferred charity.

More information and an information pack are available by visiting www.malvernrun.org.uk or phoning 01386 554848.