WHILE Race for Life events are usually remembered for thousands of women raising millions of pounds for charity, the unpaid efforts of volunteers who help to organise them are often overlooked.

Hundreds of people work behind the scenes to help set up the 5km courses, marshal the events, and lend support to women of all running abilities who take part.

Organisers from Cancer Research UK say the contribution from volunteers is "invaluable" to making the events a success, and appealed to groups across the North-East to help get the newest Race for Life, in Durham City, off the ground.

Last year, one of the region's groups which lent its support to the event in Darlington's South Park - the town's Quakers Running Club - was highly commended at the national Race for Life awards for its "outstanding contribution".

This year, the club plans to help out again, and is contributing 41 of its runners to helping to ensure the Darlington event, now in its fifth year, is a success.

Wayne Bramley, club secretary, said it was a privilege to be involved.

"We've been helping with it since day one, and it's a brilliant event with a great atmosphere," he said.

"Some of the women you see taking part, or the stories you hear, are inspirational, and it brings a lump to your throat to be part of it.

"It was very special to get recognition for our services to the Race for Life, but at the end of the day, when you hear some of the women's stories, it makes you feel so humble.

"We never have any trouble getting people to volunteer to help out, and everyone really enjoys the day. I'd encourage anyone to sign up."

Janet Cooper, regional Race for Life organiser, said: "From setting up marquees, helping people with on-the-day inquiries, to giving out medals and marshalling the course, there's a huge variety of important jobs we always appreciate help with.

"Volunteering is a great way to feel a part of the event and to make it easier for local people to understand how they can lend their support."

Organisers are looking for people to help out with the two Durham City events, both on Sunday, July 2.

To volunteer, contact Ms Cooper on (01325) 718663. For more information on the Race for Life, log on to www.raceforlife.org