HEALTH Minister Andy Kerr has launched this year's East Kilbride half-marathon and 10km fun run.

Entries are being taken for the eighth annual event, in aid of a Lanarkshire hospice, to be held on Sunday, June 24.

Mr Kerr, above, who ran in last year's Great Scottish Run, launched the appeal for entries.

Entry fee is £17 for the half-marathon or £13 for the 10km, and includes a donation to this year's official charity, the Kilbryde Hospice Appeal.

After May 31 the entry fee goes up by £2. Visit www.ekhalfmarathon.co.uk for details.