WOMEN from across Darlington and the surrounding area are gearing up to take part in the annual Race for Life in the town's South Park on Sunday.

As the park is undergoing restoration, a new route has been planned.

Race for Life events are held across the country to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

Only women are allowed to take part, but men are invited to help out as volunteers.

The 5km route starts and finishes on the main field, as usual.

After the start, the route continues in the park, leaving the park by the main gates by the fountain on Parkside and crossing over to the old pitch-and-putt field. Participants will then run around the field and back over the road into the park.

About 35 volunteer marshals from the Quakers Athletics Club and staff from Darlington Borough Council will give directions to the 3,000 runners and walkers.

Janet Cooper, of Cancer Research UK, said: "We do encourage all participants to arrive in good time so we can ensure that we start at 11am."

Participants are asked to park in the town centre - parking is free on Sundays - and walk down Victoria Embankment to the main field.

The road from Lakeside/Parkside to Parkside/Grange Road will be closed from 6am to 2pm.