THE British Red Cross is looking for people to pull on their trainers and strap on their fitness monitors to make their exercise regime count.

Miles for Refugees helps the Red Cross reunite refugees and protect their families. Participants chose a distance from 22 to 2,700 miles and then, throughout September, walk, swim, cycle or run to reach their target.

Red Cross events team manager Kerry Thomas said: “Miles for Refugees is an event for everyone. Whether you are a marathon runner, a long-distance cyclist, someone who walks the dog each morning, or are trying to motivate yourself to go swimming more regularly, you can sign up and challenge yourself.”

Entry is £10 and individuals are asked to set themselves a sponsorship target of £100.

All money raised will support the charity’s family reunion work. Each year, thousands of refugees are denied a right to a family life because of the complex nature of refugee family reunion. Trained Red Cross caseworkers guide refugees through the process and can help with travel logistics and costs, ensuring that families are reunited quickly and safely.

Alex Fraser, UK Director of Red Cross refugee services, said: “At its heart, family reunion is about keeping loved ones together. But it is also a safe and legal route to protection that refugees can pursue in order to bring loved ones to the UK. Last year we reunited 2,000 people with their families. Taking part in Miles for Refugees could help us to reunite many more.”

To register, visit redcross.org.uk/miles.