PEOPLE in Darlington are being encouraged to walk one million miles as part of a regional fitness challenge.

The Million Miles challenge is a Sport England initiative and part of the Everyday Sport campaign which aims to get people more active.

Over ten weeks, people are being urged to take part in activities that will contribute towards a total of one million miles of activity.

To help reach the target, the people of Darlington have been set the challenge of completing 13,500 miles.

On Tuesday, August 30, and Wednesday, August 31, anyone who pays to use the Dolphin Centre or Eastbourne Sports Complex's pulse suites will be asked to take part in the challenge.

Every step and mile taken on the treadmills and cross trainers during those two days will be counted and added to the total.

It is hoped people who do not use the gym very often will be tempted to join the challenge as well as encouraging those who concentrate on weight training to take up cardiovascular exercise.

Lee Vasey, Darlington Borough Council's cabinet member for leisure services, said: "I am sure the people of Darlington will rise to the challenge and reach the 13,500 mile goal.

"The two-day event will be a good introduction to keeping fit and hopefully lots of people who have not been to the gym for a while will take this opportunity to visit."

Everyone taking part must have an induction to the gym. Call (01325) 388406.