Top ref boosts charity with second Great Yorkshire Run

Mr Webb, who began his refereeing career in his home town of Rotherham, made his debut appearance in the 10k road race last year and will be running this year’s race on Sunday, October 9 for Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice.

His three children will also be taking part in the mini and junior runs on the same day as the main event.

Mr Webb said: “I really enjoyed the Bupa Great Yorkshire Run in Sheffield last year and I’m pleased to be able to run again.

“There was a terrific atmosphere in the city and with even more people likely to be running this year I’m sure it will be quite an occasion.

“Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice is a local charity close to my heart.”

Other celebrities taking part in the run include actor Dean Andrews, who plays Ray Carling in Life on Mars; Animal Hospital presenter Jamie Darling and Dean Smith, who played Phillip Ryan in Waterloo Road.

The race from the city centre to Hillsborough and back will also have a strong contingent of actors from ITV drama Emmerdale, including Chris Chittell, who is better known as Eric Pollard and Nicola Wheeler, who plays Nicola King.

Runners will be spurred on by music around the course as the Sheffield Bands on the Run festival returns for a second year.

Former athlete and race organiser John Mayock said: “Every year of the Bupa Great Yorkshire Run has been widely supported by a host of celebrity runners and the 2011 race will be no different.

“We are delighted Howard enjoyed it so much last year that he has returned for a second attempt.

“This event is unique in that it brings together some of the world’s best elite runners, with TV celebrities and amateur enthusiasts all competing on the same course.”

Entry to the run costs £25 for adults, while youngsters can sign-up to the Junior and Mini Great Yorkshire Run for just £9. So far more than 4,500 people have signed up to take part.

Those interested in running can enter online now at www.greatrun.org.