PUPILS and teachers at a Darlington school will be taking part in a race to raise money for charity at the weekend.

Twenty five children and 24 staff from Heathfield Primary School will run the Race for Life for Cancer Research UK in the town's South Park, on Sunday.

The school's physical education co-ordinator, Keith McKenzie, is organising the team's charity effort, although the race is only open to females.

"I put a bit of pressure on the teachers and other members of staff and parents, and basically press-ganged them into doing it," he said.

"We have also got children from years five and six taking part. They have all paid an entry fee and if they want to raise sponsorship money, too, all the better."

More than 1,500 people are expected to take part in this year's race. Participants are asked to arrive at the park by 10.15am for a warm-up session.

Race organiser Janet Cooper said: "All cars need to park in the town centre, which is free of charge on Sunday, as there is no parking at the park.

"Then have a nice gentle stroll down to the park via the entrance in Victoria Embankment. Remember, there will only be water at the finish, so bring your own water to drink at the start and en route."