VILLAGERS are being urged to put their best foot forward and sign up for a charity fun run.

The fourth Deerness Valley Fun Run will be held next Sunday, over a three and three quarter mile course.

The event organisers hope to raise money for St Cuthbert's Hospice in Durham, the Central Durham branch of the Samaritans and a pilgrimage to Lourdes organised by St Joseph's RC Church, Ushaw Moor, and Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Church at Esh Winning.

Run organiser Bill Donnelly said: "This year has been a nightmare to organise because of the risk of spreading foot-and-mouth disease to farms along the Deerness Valley Walk and the restrictions imposed on the public not to use such areas.

"As always, fun runners can choose to a sponsor a charity of their choice.

"Past benefactors include Ushaw Moor Play group, a local cadet unit and a local football team. To date, more than £4,000 has been raised for various causes in and around the Deerness Valley.

"This year is special for a group of five teenagers. It is their intention to raise money to fund a Lourdes pilgrimage, on which they will be aid assistants to five parishioners.''

The event will start at noon, from the grounds opposite Station View in Esh Winning, and finish next to Cochrane Terrace in Ushaw Moor.

The entry fee is £2.50 and application and sponsor forms are available from Mr Donnelly on 0191-373 4284. People can enter on the day.