SINGAPORE: A record number of runners took part in the Yellow Ribbon Prison Run on Sunday as part of efforts to help ex-offenders start afresh.

About 9,000 took part, making it the highest number of runners since the event was started three years ago.

They went past the old Changi Prison Gate into the new Changi Prison Complex and were greeted at the end point by a carnival, along with song performances and prison art exhibition featuring original artworks by reforming inmates.

Acting Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports and Minister of State for Information, Communications and the Arts Major-General (NS)Chan Chun Sing flagged off the 10-kilometre competitive race before joining runners for the 6km fun run.

He also launched the Yellow Ribbon Project 2011 campaign.

A total of S$731,000 has been raised this year for the Yellow Ribbon Fund.

Chairman of the Yellow Ribbon Prison Run Organising Committee, Kevin Hoon, said: "We are glad that more than 9,000 runners turned up to show their support for ex-offenders who have demonstrated a willingness to change.

"After release, many ex-offenders step into a second, social and psychological 'prison', the key to which is in the hands of family, friends, neighbours, employers and the community at large."

- CNA/ck

source: http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1153901/1/.html