Thousands of runners will pound the streets of Bradford to raise money for charity after the go-ahead was given for a mass-participation 10k road race in the city.

The announcement was made today by national charity Epilepsy Action, which has its head office in Yeadon and is the UK's largest member-led epilepsy charity.

It is hoped the event, which will take place in the heart of Bradford on Sunday, April 20, will raise funds for the organisation which works to improve the quality of life and promote the interests of people living with epilepsy.

Epilepsy is the UK's most common serious neurological condition, affecting an estimated 456,000 people.

As well as campaigning to improve epilepsy services and raise awareness of the condition, the charity offers assistance to people in a variety of ways, including a national network of branches, accredited volunteers, regional conferences and a helpline - 0808 800 5050.

The 10km road race is a new event for the charity and it is being supported by Bradford Council and Airedale Athletics and it is hoped it will attract 1,500 runners.

Melanie Hill, Epilepsy Action's PR and campaigns manager, said: "We are very excited about this event. It's a great way for us to raise awareness of epilepsy, while at the same time securing vital funds for our work.

"We are delighted the race will be taking place in Bradford and we're hoping it will become a key fixture in the city's events diary for many years to come."

Councillor Kris Hopkins, leader of Bradford Council, said: "We are very pleased to be giving our support to what will undoubtedly be a spectacular event.

"The sight of so many people running through the heart of the city in aid of such an excellent cause has the potential to live long in the mind.

"I would encourage anyone who thinks they can do it to take the plunge and get their entry in."

Anyone aged 15 and over can take part, from novice runners to elite runners.

The course, which starts and ends in Bradford's Centenary Square, covers a flat route, ideal for runners to record fast times and even personal bests, with results recorded by chip.

The race will start at 9.30am and costs £15 for each entry or £13 if you are affiliated to a UK athletics club.

For more information, a booking form and sponsorship forms visit the charity's website.