FOOTBALL stars have launched the countdown to this year’s Burnley 10k which is celebrating its fifth birthday.

More than 2,000 runners are due to take part in the Asda Foundation event on Sunday, June 4, which is expected to generate thousands of pounds for local causes.

Entries are now being taken for the run which was launched by Burnley FC stars yesterday.

A new route, starting and finishing in Towneley Park, was introduced last year with runners taken down Todmorden Road, past Turf Moor and through Thompson Park.

Organised by Run For All, the race forms part of the Asda Foundation 10K Series with runners able to fundraise for Macmillan Cancer Support, Jane Tomlinson Appeal, Pendleside Hospice, Burnley Leisure Trust, Every Action Has Consequences, Burnley FC in the Community and Cancer Assessment Rapid Early Support (CARES).

Lynne Preston, events manager at organisers Run For All, said: “We are really excited to be celebrating the Burnley 10K’s fifth birthday.

“The event is much-loved locally and by regular Run For All participants who always make a date with the Burnley 10K for its stunning scenery and fantastically friendly atmosphere.”

Siobhán McNamara, marketing and partnerships manager, at Burnley FC in the Community, said: “Fundraising events like this are key to supporting our charitable work in the local area – work that touches the lives of over 20,000 people every year."