YORK Race For Life will be the biggest ever after organisers revealed today that all 5,500 places had been snapped up on the charity run.

The 5km (three-mile) race around Knavesmire has attracted nearly 1,000 more participants than last year's record figure of 4,635, despite moving to an evening slot on Wednesday, July 14.

The target of raising £270,000 for Cancer Research UK is also likely to be surpassed, smashing last year's record sponsorship of £234,856.

York Race For Life organiser David Martin said capacity had been reached ahead of tomorrow's official sign-up deadline.

"At first we thought having it in the evening would go against us, but we are heartened that that has not been the case.

York will be one of 150 venues nationally aiming to boost Cancer Research UK's funds by £20 million.

Mr Martin said volunteers were still needed to help with the running of the York event. Anyone who is able to lend a hand should arrive at Knavesmire at 6pm and make their way to the Race For Life marquee. The race begins at 7.30pm.

Updated: 10:25 Tuesday, July 06, 2004