After a fantastic return to the post-COVID stage last May, Edinburgh Marathon Festival will once again see thousands of runners take to the streets of the capital for a springtime running spectacular when the starter's gun is fired on 28 May!

Known as the fastest, and second largest, marathon in the UK, this much-loved event is the ultimate Scottish running experience offering something for runners of all standards and ages to get involved. But without doubt, one of the greatest things about EMF is the amount of money it generates for charities. Since the event's inception, well over £30 million has been raised by runners and organisers are hoping that this year will continue in that same generous vein.

You may have already signed up to run for a charity at this year's event, knowing that doing so is an incredibly rewarding experience. But if you're looking for some inspiration on which charity to run for then let us help you. One charity with spots available is MND Scotland who work tirelessly to fund research into motor neurone disease (MND).

A spokesperson from the charity said: "We are thrilled to offer charity places in all major races in the 2023 Edinburgh Marathon Festival (EMF), including the Edinburgh Marathon, Half Marathon, Team Relay, 10K and 5K.

"By running as part of Team MND Scotland, every step you take and every penny you raise will bring us closer to our vision of a world without motor neurone disease. You’ll be helping us continue to fund pioneering research to find a cure and to support people with MND in Scotland, so they can spend the time they have left making precious memories with the ones they love."

There is no cure for MND yet, and the average life expectancy is just 18 months from diagnosis but with the money raised by runners at EMF and other events, the charity can fund more pioneering research to help find a cure for this devastating disease.

More information on MND Scotland and gaining a place at this year's EMF can be found here.

Image: MND Scotland