A VITAL life-saving service whose funding has been hit by the foot-and-mouth crisis is fighting back by organising its first-ever fun run event.

The Swaledale Fell Rescue Organisation is made up entirely of volunteers and relies entirely on fund-raising and donations to keep operating.

And although they opened a new HQ in Catterick Garrison earlier this year with the help of National lottery cash, 2001 has not been an easy year.

The continuing foot-and-mouth crisis has meant the cancellation of the vast majority of the local shows where the team traditionally raise funds.

However, on September 9 the team will be holding a fund-raising fun run from their HQ to try and boost their depleted funds.

"The team needs about £10,000 each year for equipment training and general running costs," said fund-raising officer Mike Pinchin.

"By joining in our first ever fun run people will be helping us to maintain our service to the local community."

The event has been designed to appeal to families and serious runners alike and there will be a choice of two routes.

Participants will be able to cover five miles or ten miles and both routes go via Richmond's market place using mainly roadside pavements.

The minimum age is 15 for the five-mile route and 16 for then ten-mile run and the entry fee will be £4 per person.

There will be medals for all the finishers and trophies for the winners at both distances.

"The fun run should provide a thoroughly enjoyable way for people to keep fit and support the SFRO at the same time."

Entries are limited to 150 for each distance and the closing date for entries is Friday, August 31.

Full details and entry forms are available from Mike Pinchin at 27 West Road, Melsonby, Richmond, DL10 5ND. Telephone (01325) 718414.

Information is also available from the Swaledale Fell Rescue Organisation web site at www.sfro.freeserve.co.uk