A group of Selby runners are to tackle the Great North Run to raise money for the Imperial Cancer Research Fund.

Organiser Jim Harran first ran the half-marathon five years ago with his friend Graham Ward.

He said: "More runners from Selby joined us last year all raising money for different cancer charities. Word has spread and more people are doing it this time. Everybody is raring to go."

Selby MP John Grogan has joined the team for the gruelling 13-mile event as an ideal way to prepare himself for the new Parliament.

He said: "I couldn't think of a better way to get fit and prepare for those long nights spent in Parliament. I've been in gentle training so far. Our athletes who competed in the Olympics have been a real inspiration. I'm looking forward to it."