RUNNING enthusiast Ben Shephard will be starting the first race of the Ealing Mini Mile in Lammas Park on Saturday (23).

Introduced in 2013, the Mini Mile has become a popular event for young runners of all levels aged 6-16 who want to be part of the Ealing Half Marathon race weekend atmosphere and experience crossing the finish line of a big race.

This year St Augustine’s Priory, Ealing, is sponsoring the event which will have the biggest ever field of runners and there will be five races depending on age category:

13.00              6-7 year olds

13.40              8 year olds

14.20              9 year olds

15.00              10 – 11 year olds

15.40              12-16 year olds

Ben Shephard, presenter of ITV’s Good Morning Britain, Tipping Point and Ninja Warrior, said: “This is the first time I will have experienced the Ealing Half Marathon and I’m delighted to be part of the experience that young runners will be having on Saturday afternoon.

“I love running. I’ve recently been going to Parkrun with my son. Encouraging young people to get involved in sport and running is something I feel really strongly about. Just getting out there and having a go is what it’s all about.

“To have so many categories for the Ealing Mini Mile is fantastic – I can’t wait to get to the race village.”

Events Co-ordinator Sandra Courtney commented: “The Ealing Mini Mile has become a central part of the Half Marathon weekend, and to be able to dedicate an afternoon to it is a huge testament to the popularity that running has built in and around Ealing.”

Current Mini Mile course records are held by Charlotte Buckley from Thames Valley Harriers (05:43) and Joseph Barnes (05:18).