ABOUT 1,400 women braved the heat yesterday to take part in a fundraising charity run.

The Race for Life, a 5km fun run, took place at Herrington Country Park, near Sunderland, to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

Race organiser Jill Campbell said: "It was fantastic and there was a really great atmosphere.

"It was our biggest ever turnout at Herrington Country Park and we think it will raise about £50,000."

The money will go on research into cancer in laboratories at Newcastle General Hospital.

The event was the second in this year's North-East Race for Life calendar.

The next is in South Park, Darlington, on Sunday, June 20, followed by Ormesby Hall, Middlesbrough, on Sunday, July 4.

Places are still available for both races. To take part, call (0870) 513 4314, or log on to www.raceforlife.org.uk