THERE are just days to go until Southampton is turned into one giant, colourful canvas.

Several Hampshire firms are the latest to show their support for Naomi House’s Rainbow Run in Southampton this coming weekend.

The Daily Echo-backed event is a 3km fun run with a twist – runners get pelted with paint as they zoom through the city raising money towards the £4m Caterpillar Appeal to refurbish the Hampshire hospice.

So far 500 people have signed up to take part, but Naomi House wants to double that number.

Meanwhile several Hampshire businesses have stepped up to help with the fundraiser, by covering the cost of the paint and paint stations that will line the route on Sunday, September 7.

As well as the Daily Echo, Nix Communications, Simply Health and Glanvilles Solicitors have all dug deep to ensure the event is a big success.

The sponsors will also have a crucial part to play on the day as they will be the ones throwing the paint – including Daily Echo editor-in-chief Ian Murray, who will be assisted by three-year-old Tarun Chung who stays at the hospice near Winchester for respite care.

Nicole Denison, events fundraiser for Naomi House and Jacksplace hospices said: “We are really excited to be bringing our Rainbow Run to Southampton and are extremely grateful to our paint station sponsors for their tremendous support.

“We would not have been able to stage this spectacular event without their help, and we look forward to seeing the paint flying through Southampton’s streets on September 7.”

The run will begin at 11am and participants will set off from outside the Southampton Guildhall, making their way through East Park, Watts Park and Above Bar Street.

Entry costs £12 for adults and £8 for children.

For more details and to sign up, visit naomihouse.org. uk/events/showevent/rainbow-run.