SELF-EMPLOYED builder Philip Outram hopes to help the fight against cancer by running the Great North Run.

Philip, 48, of Mowbray Close, Sunderland, will join thousands of other runners taking part in the half-marathon from Newcastle to South Shields on Sunday, September 16.

He hopes to raise about £1,000 for the Cancer Research Campaign as a personal tribute to family and friends who have suffered the disease.

Mr Outram said: "I first did the Great North Run 15 years ago, but I have not done it since.

"As well as my wife's mother Grace dying from cancer ten years ago, we have quite a few friends who have suffered from the disease.

"In fact at the moment we have a close friend the same age as me in Exeter who has had cancer for the past two years and is very poorly indeed.

"I hope that by aiming for the £1,000 mark I do my bit to help further the vital work that Cancer Research Campaign scientists and doctors are carrying out to find new cures and better treatments for future cancer patients.''

Mr Outram has started training for the 13-mile run and is hoping family, friends and customers will back him with sponsorship.

The charity hopes that Great North Run entrants will raise £100,000 for its research programmes. Last year, £65,000 was raised.

Regional director Pat Bradley said: "Our message is clear and simple - research cures cancer, research needs money, so why not help us go for gold this September.''

Runners wanting to help should call (01937) 588855 for more details.