IT'S all systems go for planners of this year's Great North Walk after a team of ramblers yesterday gave the route a test run.

Organisers and volunteers checked the eight-mile route in County Durham to ensure it would suit the thousands of walkers expected on Sunday, July 18.

Starting and finishing at Auckland Castle, Bishop Auckland, home of the Bishops of Durham for 800 years, the route also takes in the Roman fort at Binchester.

Wear Valley District Council's leisure department and Nova International, the team behind the Great North Run, have devised a circular route of moderate difficulty.

The Great North Walk, sponsored by Traidcraft, is a huge social and charity fundraising event but is also a key element of a drive towards healthier living for people in the district.

It is part of the Chance to Live campaign - a joint effort by The Northern Echo, Wear Valley District Council, Durham Dales Primary Care Trust, Northumbrian Water and new partners Darlington Primary Care Trust and Darlington Borough Council to promote healthy living and raise awareness of coronary heart disease.

Lynn Wilson, Wear Walking for Health co-ordinator, said: "We're about ready now and looking forward to the walk itself.

"The walk leaders and other volunteers make it possible for us to hold a major event like this. Having enjoyed it ourselves we are confident the route is suitable and know how pleasant it is."