VOLUNTEERS are being sought for a truly back-breaking charity challenge - Scarborough's 27th annual Coal Hump.

People from all over the North-East have traditionally taken part in the 3.5-mile event lugging coal sacks along the sea front and a number of different good causes benefit from the effort.

People wanting to take part in the event on October 27 are being urged to get in touch and start training. There are several classes for different levels of fitness - solo, pairs, team, disabled, full-sack, half-sack, ladies and children.

Event chairman Bob Heaps said: "We want to make this event bigger and better than we have done for a long time, but that needs the support of local people.

"In previous years we have enjoyed a lot of interest and I'm sure that a lot of people will want to take part in a fun and challenging event and at the same time help some very worthwhile children's charities."

Entry and sponsorship forms are available from Heaps Chemist, at 91 Falsgrave Road; Hopscotch Caf on Victoria Road; Centre News, in Huntriss Row; and Scarborough Rowing Club, on the Foreshore.