Organisers of the YEP-backed Cancer Research UK 10k at Harewood House say signing up is the ideal way for couples to boost their relationship, as well as their fitness.

Andy Wilson, organiser of the event, said a survey for the charity found more than a quarter of people spent less than three hours a day with their partner.

One in eight admitted spending less than 10 per cent of their time together talking while nearly half of people admitted being on the phone or text when they were meant to be enjoying time with their other half.

Andy said: "The survey shows that modern living is leaving little room in relationships for challenge and stimulation and little time for joint activities like exercise – or even talking."

"It's interesting to see just how little time couples are spending together these days. In light of these findings, Cancer Research UK is challenging couples from all over Yorkshire to enter the Harewood House Run 10k together on Sunday, September 14, to help them to spend more quality time in each other's company."

The charity has teamed up with fitness expert to the stars Lucy Wyndham-Read to create a fun online quiz that estimates personal target running times for Run 10k.

Couples can also use their estimated target running times to challenge their partner with a pledge, from doing their washing for a month to a marriage proposal.

The pledge system is open to all pairs, whether they are husband and wife, brother and sister, workmates, or best friends.

Andy added: "Running is not only a great way to keep fit and healthy but the perfect way to spend time together.

"We hope that couples, friends or even workmates across the county will be really inspired by the pledge system to get active and challenge each other to Run 10k together.

To take the quiz and challenge someone to go on the run with you visit www.run10ktogether.com.