If you're looking for an early autumn event to keep your training momentum going over the warmer (busier) months of summer then look no further than East Lothian in September when big race action will return for the popular double header – Scottish Half Marathon and Scottish 10K (18 September).

And it's not simply the date that works for those in search of an autumn goal, these events can also provide you with the chance to set a PB thanks to the 'seriously flat and rapid route'. Starting just outside Edinburgh, you will run along the magnificent East Lothian Golf Coast before finishing in the final furlong at Musselburgh Racecourse; Scotland’s oldest racecourse.

There's only one thing that would make race day sweeter and that is the knowledge that all your efforts have been for a higher purpose than simply achieving a PB performance. And what better purpose than running for a charity such as MND Scotland.

Motor Neurone Disease (MND) stops the nerve cells that control the body’s movement from sending messages to muscles. MND is often rapid and always fatal. There is no known cure. Around 400 people in Scotland currently live with MND. On average almost 200 people are diagnosed each year in Scotland. You can do your bit to help those suffering by running for the charity in September.

There are guaranteed places available with a minimum sponsorship requirement of £300 (for the half) and £150 for the 10K. But what's more important is how that money will help those who need it… For instance, £50 could help deliver essential equipment to someone living with MND, £250 could fund a Support Group meeting for people affected by MND and £500 could pay for Time Out Grants, helping people access respite care or to go on a last family holiday.

As always, those choosing to run for MND Scotland will receive a bucketload of support to help them in their endeavour both on the course and off. If you'd like to know more visit the charity's website here.

Image: MND Scotland