ORGANISERS of a long-standing event in a west Suffolk market town are making a desperate plea for support after being faced with thousands of pounds of potential costs.

In the past, road closures and safety issues needed for the annual Sudbury Fun Run were managed by the police. But legislation has been introduced which means that police officers are no longer responsible for reducing disruption on the county’s road network.

The situation has left organisers of the fun run – which attracts nearly 1,000 runners and walkers, and raises thousands of pounds for charity – facing a bill of more than �4,000 for a road management company to ensure they adhere to safety regulations. Sudbury Joggers running club, which organises the event said the bill would have a devastating effect and would take up a the majority of the funds usually allocated to good causes.

Club member Jonathan Price said: “Last year we raised more than �6,000 to be shared between two charities, but if we have to pay for the road management this year, that amount would be severely compromised, which would be a crying shame.

“Everybody really enjoys taking part in the event and it is a big incentive for the walkers and runners to know they are raising money for such worthy causes and it would be tragic if much of this money is lost on what is basically red tape.”

During the Good Friday event, participants take on a five-mile course through the streets of Sudbury and Great Cornard. It has been a favourite date on the town’s calendar since the 1980s.

Mr Price added: “We have no choice but to ensure we have qualified people managing the road issues during the event as it is a legal requirement. We can only hope people with the necessary qualification will come forward to support us, or that some other local organisation or business can help us to meet some of the cost.”

Anybody who can offer support is asked to call Mr Price on 01787 880796.