THERE'S still time for runners to sign up for the national Race for Life to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

For the first time, a race is being held in Darlington and there are plenty of places left for women who want to be sponsored to run the 5km course at South Park on Sunday, July 14, at 11am.

Number 0001 will be worn by Roberta Bowman, Ambassador for the Darlington event.

Roberta,who lives near Heighington village not far from Darlington, said: "We have had a lot of interest but there is still time for women who want to take part to sign up."

Fun runners, joggers and walkers are all welcome to take part in the women-only race,which costs £7.50.

Other races are being held in Gateshead, Harrogate, Sunderland, York and Middlesbrough on different days.

Although hundreds of people have signed up, organisers have kept back numbers 0002, 0003 and 2002 for the Darlington event.

The Northern Echo is offering them to three runners who write in and tell us why they deserve the accolade.

Unlike previous years, competitors cannot register on the day, so anyone wanting to take part in any of the races must call 08705 134314 for a sponsorship pack or log on to www.raceforlife.co.uk

To enter the competition to wear one of the special numbers write to Hayley Gyllenspetz, The Race for Life, The Northern Echo, Priestgate, Darlington, DL1 1NF.