Two friends are aiming to raise thousands for the victims of Gaza by taking part in the Great North West Half Marathon in Blackpool.

Bashir Mulla and Arif Ismail are urging people to donate as much as they can and help those affected by the horrific events in Gaza. They will be joining hundreds from across the region and are running the 13 mile distance for the first time.

Bashir said, "Neither of us have run this distance before and we are not taking this lightly! We are currently in training for the event and busy trying to raise as much as we possibly can.

"We are looking for people to sponsor us for the event along with any donations people would like to make for this cause."

Arif added, "All monies raised will be going to help the people of Gaza via Interpal, a UK registered charity (1040094) helping Palestinians in need.

"Please dig deep and sponsor / donate us for the Gaza cause, every penny raised will be lessening the hardship and suffering of the people of Gaza."

If you would like to donate please contact Bashir Mulla on 07536 692894 or Arif Ismail on 07536 692895 or e-mail e-mail: running4gaza@hotmail.co.uk.

Alternatively log on to www.justgiving.com/gazarunners