WOMEN in the region are being urged to take part in a charity race.

Cancer Research UK's Race for Life, which takes place in Darlington's South Park on Sunday, June 20, was launched yesterday at the Tesco store in Catterick, North Yorkshire.

Thirty-five members of staff from the store, which is sponsoring the event, will run the 5km race.

Customer services assistant Elizabeth Graham said: "I think everybody knows somebody who has been touched by cancer.

"We have got 35 women taking part so far this year, but that is just the start. We are really putting a lot of effort into it to make it a huge success."

So far, almost 400 women have signed up to take part in the race, but there are still places left.

Jill Campbell, from Cancer Research UK, said: "This year will see Race for Life back in Darlington for the third time.

"Last year's event was such a success, and that has been reflected in the sponsorship money raised for us. In 2003, Darlington Race for Life raised a staggering £69,000 and we are hoping to beat that this year."

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

To enter, go to www.racefor life.org or call (08705) 134314.