CHARITY runners took part in a North-East fun run to help raise money for causes close to their hearts.

Ruth Murray and Wendy Bailey, of Darlington Building Society, put on their running shoes in the Sunderland Color Run in a bid to raise £500.

They completed the five kilometres to raise money for Stainton Grove Community Centre, in Barnard Castle, and Macmillan Cancer Support.

They are on course to reach the £500 mark and their efforts are to be boosted by a donation from the building society via its community support allowance.

Mrs Murray, a customer sales assistant, in Barnard Castle, and Miss Bailey, an office manager, in Bishop Auckland, will split the funds between the charities.

Miss Bailey said: “Both our chosen good causes do great work in the local community and we are pleased to be able to support them.

“The building society prides itself on looking after local interests and we were both delighted to have the opportunity to take part in the Sunderland Color Run, which is a fantastic, fun event.”