ELEVEN teams will take part in a tough ten-mile race around the Malvern Hills to raise money for the Royal British Legion (RBL) today (Saturday).

From 11am, those taking part in the Coltman Stretcher Carry race will set off from Malvern Library, travelling up through Edith Walk to join the Hills, taking in Worcestershire Beacon, Summer Hill, Perseverance Hill and other climbs before finishing at British Camp.

Organiser Susan Buxton, said: "Last year's Stretcher Carry raised nearly £2,500. This year we hope to raise more than £5,000 for the Poppy Appeal, which funds the welfare work of the RBL. The route is pretty gruelling, and I hope everyone who sees them on their way will give them a big cheer."

The Coltman Stretcher Carry is named after the most highly decorated British ordinary soldier, Lieutenant Corporal Bill Coltman, who won all his gallantry awards as a stretcher bearer with the 6th North Staffordshire Regiment in the First World War.