The organisers of a charity quarter marathon have announced they are stepping down after 25 years in charge.

John Hambleton set up the Bushey Quarter Marathon in 1986 and, assisted by his wife Helen, has organised the annual run for nearly a quarter of a century.

On Tuesday, at the launch of this year's event, John announced that he and his wife will be stepping down from their posts once the final runner crosses the finish line, on July 3.

He said: "It seems a good time to bow out. It will be emotional for both Helen and I because we have put a lot of work into it and for it to suddenly come to a halt will be sad - we have got an awful lot of joy out of it over the years."

Mr Hambleton remains tight-lipped over whether or not a successor has been found, but says he hopes this year's event, for which runners can now sign up, will be the biggest yet.

"We want to go out with a bang," he said. "I think with all good things, you don't want them to come to an end, but Helen and I have not had a decent holiday in May or June for 25 years."

The event will raise money for the Peace Hospice and last year broke its record total, with more than £5,000 gathered.

Every year, the 6.5-mile run, which starts in King George Recreation Ground, attracts about 300 adult entrants, while about 400 children, many from Bushey schools, enter the two-mile fun run.

Junior fun runs are also organised for children under the ages of 12 and ten.

Main sponsors, Bushey Spire Hospital, donated £3,000 for the event, and will be sending a team of physiotherapists on the day to give warm-up tips to runners.

Mr Hambleton added: "We want as many people to sign up as possible to make this a record final year."

For more information and an entry form, visit the Bushey Quarter marathon website, or telephone John Hambleton on 07779458285.