WOMEN from across the region are being asked to walk, jog or run 5km to raise money for Cancer Research.

The Northern Echo is supporting this year's Race for Life, in Darlington, which aims to raise thousands of pounds for charity.

Yesterday, the race, which will take place at South Park, Darlington, on Sunday, July 13, was launched at Tesco, in Catterick, North Yorkshire, which is sponsoring the event.

More than 700 women have already agreed to take part in the 10th annual event and raise money for charity.

Runners are asked to pay a small entry fee to cover administration and then get sponsorship to complete the course.

Teams are also invited to get involved and the charity is asking businesses to match any amount its employees raise pound-for-pound.

All entrants get a race number, sponsorship form and a training programme to help them get fit for the challenge.

Janet Cooper, of Cancer Research, said: "We want as many women as possible to take part this year to make it an extra special anniversary.

"It does not matter how quickly you complete the course, the important thing is raising money for Cancer Research UK."

To take part, log on to www.raceforlife.org, or call (08705) 134134.

* The Northern Echo is giving one runner the chance to wear race Number One. To get the number and to be entered into the race free, send your name, address and phone number to Race for Life competition, The Northern Echo, PO Box 14, Priestgate, Darlington, Co Durham, DL1 1NF, with the answer to the following question: Which charity organises the Race for Life?