A GROUP of police officers will swap the frontline for the racetrack to raise funds for a charity supporting children with cerebral palsy on Sunday.

PCSOs Tony Spruce, Dave Mahon, Andy Maxwell, PC Tony Davidson and PC Garry Geoghegan will be taking on the John West Liverpool Spring 10k alongside Chris Davies, Daniel Mahon and Owen Davidson.

The feat will be carried out in aid of Stick 'n' Step which supports children with the condition to help maximise their independence.

The team have ramped up efforts in recent weeks but PCSO Spruce, who covers the Latchford area, revealed they have been following a strict regime since the turn of the year.

The 45-year-old said: "We have all been running since January and thought it would be great to do the 10k for this brilliant charity.

"Since then we have tried to get out whenever we can. It has averaged out to around twice a week – each time we run around five to eight kilometres."

PCSO Spruce also said the camaraderie and team spirit transferred from life on the beat has made training a memorable experience.

He added: "It has been such a great laugh and a lot of team-building has taken place.

"We have just had to take running seriously and it can be difficult sometimes as we are not all young anymore – it can be hard on the legs.

"But everything has gone well and we've raised around £700 now but we want to try to get to £1,000.

"There is a mix of ages but everyone has managed to keep up and stick together throughout it all.

"We would like to finish in under an hour but the main target is to just finish the race and in the process raise as much as we can for charity."

PCSO Spruce also confirmed the runners may treat themselves if the event at Sefton Park proves to be a success.

"We might have a celebratory drink afterwards," he said.

For further information visit sticknstep.org or to donate go to justgiving.com/sticknstep