MORE than 4,000 women across the region have already signed up for this summer's Race For Life.

Campaigners said yesterday that it was a remarkable response, as applications only opened six weeks ago for the eight races planned in the North-East and North Yorkshire in May, June and July.

There are limited places in all the events, but some races are filling up fast.

More than 1,000 women have already joined the Middlesbrough event, meaning there are just 900 places left.

Race for Life, in aid of Cancer Research UK, is an event in which women walk or run 5km. This summer, almost half a million women will take part in more than 160 races nationwide, with the aim of raising £23m.

There are about 18,000 places left for the races in this region, and potential applicants are urged to apply as soon as possible online, as it saves the charity administration costs.

The latest figures show more than 520 people in the North-East are diagnosed with cancer every month.

Janet Cooper, of Cancer Research UK, said: "The fact that so many women from the North-East have registered already is wonderful. Hopefully, lots more will be inspired to enter and raise funds for Cancer Research UK's life-saving work."

There are races in Darlington, Middlesbrough, Sunderland, Newcastle, Gateshead, Harrogate, Scarborough and York. Campaigners are appealing for both male and female volunteers to help.

To take part, log on to www.raceforlife.org or call 08705 134 314.

If you are taking part in the race in memory of someone special, or have a story you would like to share, organisers ask you to call Janet Cooper on (01325) 718663.