FEMALE finance staff are getting their figures in shape for a money-raising workout next month.

Last year, eight women from the financial services team at Hambleton District Council ran a combined total of 24 miles and raised more than £800 for charity.

And this year they are being joined by 15 colleagues and friends to take part in the "Raceforlife" for the Imperial Cancer Research Fund.

They will be among hundreds of woman running, jogging and walking three miles at Ormesby Hall, Middlesbrough, on June 30.

"Everyone knows someone who has been - or is - affected by cancer," said accountancy assistant Joanne Hipkins. The idea of getting a team together from the council to raise money for this good cause really appealed. We had such fun last year.

"With 23 runners this year we hope to raise a lot more cash for this very worthwhile cause."

The event began in 1994 with just one race in London. Since then the concept has grown and this year 71 races will be held in towns and cities across the UK.