Our very own journalists are among those donning elephant suits to stomp around Wimbledon Common for charity.

Wimbledon Guardian reporters Louisa Clarence-Smith and Becky Middleton are hoping to raise hundreds of pounds for charity by running the 5k race with friend Michelle MacDonagh.

The trio will be among about 200 people dressing up as elephants to highlight the plight of orphaned and poached elephants in Kenya.

Funds raised will go to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT), which is a conservation charity that works to protect Africa’s wildlife and habitats.

Miss Clarence-Smith, 23, said: "I’m concerned about the threat to elephants from poachers and am looking forward to fundraising with the community to help protect them."

The Enormous Elephant Run event will see people run, jog or walk 5k or 10k on Wimbledon Common on Saturday, June 7.

Miss MacDonagh, 26, from Chipstead, said: "What better way to raise money for a fantastic charity than to run dressed up as an elephant?"

As well as being a fun way to raise money and awareness, elephant keeper Benjamin Kyalo who teaches orphaned elephants how to live in the wild, will be on hand to share his experiences on the day.

Rob Brandford, DSWT director said: "We’ve been incredibly grateful for everyone’s support and determination so far to help us try and reach our £20,000 goal and protect this famous species.

"We’re expecting 200 to take part, with family and friends cheering from the side lines.

"If you loved Elmer as a child, love elephants now or just want to get fit, we’d love to have you join our human-elephant herd - promising to be London’s largest."

To register for your place on The Enormous Elephant Run, visit the website or contact the events team at infouk@sheldrickwildlifetrust.org.

Entry costs £32 for the 5K and £35 for the 10K which includes an elephant suit, fundraising materials and support.

To sponsor the team, visit the website.

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