WEST Devon runners who missed the application date for next year's London Marathon could still take part in the big event.

National charity, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People is offering keen would-be marathon runners, the chance to join their team by raising a minimum sponsorship of just £2,000 for the 2011 Virgin London Marathon.

Hearing Dogs offers a fantastic support package to runners, including a pre-race reception at the charity's headquarters in Buckinghamshire, where runners will receive a tour of the site, the kennels and meet some of the hearing dogs in training, and also have a chance to discuss their nutritional needs with a qualified sports nutritionist.

The post event package includes reception at the prestigious Institute of Directors in London's Pall Mall for a much needed massage and some post event recovery and later in the year, all the runners are invited to a summer barbeque at Hearing Dogs headquarters.

Hearing Dogs for Deaf People is a registered charity that trains dogs to respond to specific household sounds like the doorbell, telephone and smoke alarm, to help deaf people in their daily lives.

As well as providing practical assistance, hearing dogs can also help to restore a deaf person's sense of security, confidence and independence.

Janine Sargent, the Charity's regional fundraiser for the south west, said 'This is a great opportunity to challenge yourself in 2011 and, at the same time, help a severely or profoundly deaf person.

'These amazing dogs really do transform people's lives so please join the team and help make a difference'.

To apply for a place or for further enquiries please contact Hannah Holmes at [email protected]">[email protected] or call 01844 348113.

For more information on hearing dogs visit http://www.hearingdogs.org.uk">www.hearingdogs.org.uk