SPORT Relief is nearing and people are limbering up to become 'mile ready' for the national Sainsbury's Sport Relief Okehampton Mile — but there is still plenty of time to sign up and get active, writes Sam Hughes.

People of all ages and abilities are being invited to take part in the fun day in March, to run or walk the mile, or to just take part in the day's events.

Event organiser David Hocking appealed to people to take part in the race: 'This is a great opportunity to take part in a fun day, running or walking one, three or six miles.

'Work-mates can get together to form a team or enter in fancy dress as we are holding a competition with great prizes.'

Okehampton fitness instructor Emma Jefferies will be leading the warm-ups for each race at 11am, noon, 2pm and 3pm.

She said: 'I did it last time, but this year should be bigger and better. I will get some music on and warm up the crowds before each race.

'The race is only a mile so you can walk, jog, skip, hop backwards — whatever you like, just come along and join in to have some fun, get a bit of exercise and raise some money for such a good cause.'

As well as the main races, there will be plenty of other activities taking place on the day.

A number of charities and local clubs will have stalls at the fun day, giving information and taster sessions, including Fairtrade Gifts, Rapid UK, Okehampton Guides, ShelterBox, Okehampton Hockey Club, South West Children's Hospice South West, Canoe Tamar, Tree Surfers, and many more.

Mr Hocking said: 'There will be many sports clubs, charities and organisations there on the day. I am trying, as it is Sport Relief, to get people out and about and get active.

'Perhaps people are thinking of joining a club or becoming a volunteer. If so, come and meet these charities and organisations who are doing such wonderful work in all parts of the world.

'Halfway through the day we are having a mass Tai Chi session held by Pippa Cherrington, which should be a great sight, and Jonathon Marshall, of Experience Falconry, will be giving a full show, including his horses. Jonathon and Pippa are donating their time to Sport Relief so I urge anyone who isn't taking part in the run to come along to see them.'

The run and fun day will take place in the grounds of Okehampton College and Simmons Park. 'It is pram and wheelchair-friendly with lots of wonderful volunteers on hand to help if required.' said Mr Hocking, who has enlisted the help of the Okehampton Lions.

'There will be food and drink available all day.'

The Okehampton Mile will take place on Sunday March 21, starting at 10am.

Mr Hocking said: 'It's about taking the opportunity. We have had a long winter with more than 50 days of solid rain, snow and ice, so now's the time to start the year off by participating in Sport Relief in Okehampton. I would love to see as many people there as possible.'

To register for the Okehampton Mile, visit http://www.sportrelief.com">www.sportrelief.com