A Darlington woman is preparing to take part in the Great North Run for the 13th time to raise money for a local hospice.

Eileen Leonard, 51, from Haughton, is aiming to gather £1 sponsorship from the entire population of Darlington to raise money to furnish rooms at St Teresa's Hospice

Darlington Football Club chairman George Reynolds has already started the fund by donating £10.

Friends and family have also pledged their support to Eileen's Pound for 2000 Appeal by rounding up sponsors from their local communities.

Money can be donated at the customer service counter at the Morrison's store at Morton Park. The store has also agreed to place buckets at the checkouts tomorrow and Saturday.

Donations can also be made at the security office at Magnet, Darlington Memorial Hospital, The Shuttle and Loom pub, Haughton off-licence and the St Teresa's Hospice shop.