EMPLOYEES at Nationwide are putting their best feet forward for the Swindon Half Marathon.

The building society, based in Pipers Way, is not just sponsoring the event, it is encouraging as many staff as possible to enter the 13-mile race.

Support manager Jason Daniels, from Highworth, has been leading the push for entries in his role as Nationwide athletics secretary.

The 35-year-old said: "We have a very fit workforce. Every lunchtime there is a run for staff and each day has a different focus, such as speed work or hill work. We have all abilities - it's about taking part and teamwork.

"Over the year we enter lots of major events and the Swindon Half Marathon is one of the highlights. I expect more than 20 members of staff will be taking part this year."

Michelle Leighton, the firm's community and environmental affairs manager, said: "This is the fourth year that Nationwide has sponsored the half marathon and fun runs and we have just signed a new three-year sponsorship deal.

"This is a fantastic community event which is open to people of all ages and abilities and raises thousands of pounds for very worthy local charities."

The event, organised by Swindon Council, takes place on Sunday, October 14. Entry forms are now available at council-run venues, including leisure facilities, gyms and libraries.

People can enter online for the first time this year by logging on to www.swindonhalfmarathon .co.uk - a new website dedicated to the event. It not only contains information about the half marathon and fun runs, but also latest news on the race, a runners' guide, race preparation tips, details of road closures and volunteering opportunities.

The race is open to adults of all ages and abilities. People can also take part in a five-mile multi-terrain fun run or a two-mile fun run.

Coun Justin Tomlinson, cabinet member for leisure, culture and recreation, said: "We are delighted that Nationwide is again supporting the Swindon Half Marathon - in every sense of the word.

"I wish all their staff the best of luck with their training for what promises to be a fantastic event."